France accelerates military modernization: unveiling of Mistral missiles and Caesar cannons
So, the French government is cranking up the heat to transform its economy into a full-blown war economy, right? Well, that's pretty much the deal. Businesses, big and small, are gearing up, responding to the call. But, here's the catch - production is still facing some hiccups, with delays causing a bit of frustration.
Take a look at France's defense industry - it's charging ahead at breakneck speed. Guess what's on the menu? Mistral missiles, Caesar cannons, and Rafale aircraft - yup, all the good stuff. Emmanuel Chiva, the Delegate General for Armament (DGA), says that the defense sector is capable of doubling production if given the green light in certain areas. Companies like Airbus, Safran, Dassault, Thales, and even the 4,500 SMEs/ETIs and start-ups in the French defense industrial and technological base are all in on it.
On the artillery front, things are already looking rosy. The Caesar cannon, manufactured by KNDS France, which used to churn out two units per month, is now up to six in 2023 with a goal of 12 by 2025. The Mistral surface-to-air missile from MBDA has doubled its monthly output as well, from 20 to 40 units. The French military is quite pleased, backing up the effectiveness of these weapons on the Ukrainian battlefield.
Re-armament: It's All About that Safran Wonder Weapon
But not all production is growing at the same pace. For complex equipment or smaller volumes like frigates or submarines, there's less emphasis on doubling production rates and more on slashing delays by a few months. The challenge lies in ensuring the whole subcontracting chain, both in terms of material and personnel, keeps up.
While waiting for additional state orders, industrialists can lean on exports to prop up their businesses. But it's getting tougher, with competitors like South Korea and Turkey gaining ground. The 2024-2030 Military Programming Law (LPM) aims to embody the executive's budgetary and strategic efforts, and the DGA should act as a shrewd and responsible investor, balancing budget constraints, LPM execution, and aiding Ukraine.
Key Naval Programs: Present and Future
As Europe steps up its military efforts, France's defense industries are focusing on both new builds and upgrades of existing assets. They're looking to replace the current Charles de Gaulle carrier with the PA-NG, Europe's largest nuclear aircraft carrier, set to begin construction around 2031-2032. By 2038, this behemoth is expected to sail into action. Preparatory work like nuclear boiler contracts has already started, setting the stage for the project.
Manufacturers are tackling modernization challenges as well, following broader European trends. But, it's not all smooth sailing - they face hurdles like access to raw materials, maintaining a skilled workforce, and juggling the complexities of modernizing and expanding production lines.
Here's a quick glimpse of France's major naval programs and plans:
| Program/Equipment | Status/Plans | Expected Timeline ||--------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------|| Frigates & Submarines| Modernization and increased production in response to demand | Ongoing || PA-NG Carrier | Order expected end of 2025, construction from 2031–2032, operational by 2038 | 2025–2038 || K22 Reactors | Pre-production contracts awarded, production 2024–2029 | 2024–2029 |
In conclusion, France's defense industry is facing the strategic challenges posed by the Ukraine conflict head-on, proving its might with increased war production of complex naval equipment. Programs like the PA-NG aircraft carrier demonstrate a lasting commitment to fortifying France's position in Europe. Let's hope that momentum continues as France navigates these tough waters.
[1] Ellis, David. "France’s $88 billion investment in its military: What it means for the U.S.-French defense relationship." Washington Examiner. May 1, 2023. [2] "France boosts defense spending in response to Ukraine conflict." Jane's Defense Weekly. April 30, 2023. [3] "Naval Group." IHS Markit. N/A. [4] "PA-NG aircraft carrier." Naval News. March 9, 2023. [5] "French defense budget: Macron’s plan to 'reconfiguration' the country's military, in figures." The Connexion. May 4, 2023. [6] "French frigate FDI undergoing tests ahead of 2025 launch." Naval News. April 13, 2023. [7] "Aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle sets sail to protect Sasebo fleet during exercises | Japan Times Online." The Japan Times. April 21, 2023. [8] "France Bolsters Naval Vessels To Boost Military Strength." Defense World. May 2, 2023.
- In an effort to double production, the French defense sector, including companies like Safran, is labeling certain areas as potential growth zones.
- As France boosts its defense production, the Import-Export strategy becomes crucial for companies like Safran, given the increasing competition in the global technology market from countries like South Korea and Turkey.
