France To Deploy Nuclear Fighter Jets Near Germany

• 18.03.2025, 17:50

Deadlines and details revealed.

By 2035, upgraded Rafale fighter jets armed with hypersonic nuclear missiles will be stationed at Air Base 116 Luxeuil-les-Bains.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing French President Emmanuel Macron, as quoted by BFMTV.

According to BFMTV, Macron aims to make Air Base 116 the "home" of future new-generation Rafale jets, which he describes as "key components" of France's nuclear deterrence forces.

The airbase will receive an investment of €1.5 billion for modernization. In the future, it will house two new Rafale squadrons, totaling around 40 aircraft.

Macron also confirmed that France will increase its order for Rafale jets, which he called a necessary step in response to a geopolitical "turning point."

BFMTV adds that France's current nuclear deterrence system operates from three air bases:

— Saint-Dizier in the Haute-Marne department

— Istres in the Bouches-du-Rhône department

— Avord in the Cher department