The French Parliament has made a historic decision by approving an unprecedented defense budget. By 2030, the country plans to invest 436 billion euros in its armed forces. The updated version of the Military Programming Law passed both houses: an overwhelming majority voted in favor of the document — 375 deputies of the National Assembly, while only 113 voted against.
Response to a New Reality
French Minister of the Armed Forces, Catherine Colonna, called this decision a duty to the citizens. According to her, the world has changed: "High-intensity warfare has returned to Europe". The official emphasized that the balance of power is becoming stricter, and threats are becoming more complex — from hybrid to cyber and space threats.
Paris is closely studying the experience of combat operations in Ukraine and the Middle East. Therefore, the priority of investments will be types of weapons that have proven their effectiveness in real conflicts: missiles, artillery shells, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
"State of Alarm" and Emergency Powers
The law introduces a new legal mechanism — "state of alarm of national security". This regime can be introduced in case of a serious threat to the country and gives the government broad powers. In particular, the authorities will have the right to temporarily ignore environmental and urban planning norms for the accelerated construction of strategic facilities, for example, shelters for Rafale fighters.
The document also legalizes the use of anti-drone systems by private operators, including airports, which will be an important step in protecting civilian infrastructure.
New Defense Culture
Preparation for threats will affect not only the army but also society. The traditional Defense Day is being transformed into Mobilization Day. The main goal of the reform is to acquaint young people with the army and teach the basics of military affairs. In addition, a new voluntary state service is being created, allowing citizens to participate in defense initiatives.
Technological Leap and International Cooperation
France's military modernization goes hand in hand with the development of advanced technologies. The country is actively working on creating the ASN4G hypersonic nuclear missile, capable of maneuvering at extreme speeds, which will make it practically invulnerable to modern air defense systems.
In the field of international cooperation, the first results of negotiations with Ukraine on the licensed production of SCALP missiles on the territory of Kyiv have already been achieved.
