In 2038, the new aircraft carrier, named “France Libre”, is scheduled to be delivered to replace the Charles de Gaulle. According to Victor Masson, a research fellow and naval expert at the FRS (Foundation for Strategic Research), this operation is necessary to replace a “tired vessel”.
As France prepares to renew its naval aviation capacity, the future aircraft carrier raises debates and questions regarding cost, strategic utility, and adaptation to new forms of warfare. To better understand the reasons behind this decision and the characteristics of the future vessel, Victor Masson, a naval expert, sheds light on the challenges and ambitions of this major program for the French Navy.
Why does France need a new aircraft carrier? Victor Masson: A new vessel is needed for several reasons, mainly related to the nuclear propulsion system. After more than 30 years of service, the Charles de Gaulle is a worn-out ship. Extending its lifespan is not practical, so opting for a new aircraft carrier is more beneficial.
What will the next vessel look like? An aircraft carrier is a complete ship, capable of moving and projecting power. It carries a number of fighter jets and aircraft that make up this projection capability. It also serves as a command center, with a chief of staff on board capable of planning missions and collecting information through advanced radar systems and data centers.
Is this decision necessary despite criticism of the cost? Like all decisions, it can be criticized from different perspectives. However, the aircraft carrier remains an essential tool with no equivalent replacement. Renewing the naval aviation component is therefore a positive choice.
With the “France Libre”, the navy is embarking on a new vessel for the next 40 years. How will it adapt to modern conflicts, especially with the rise of drones? The new generation of aircraft carriers will carry adapted drones that can be launched by catapult. To protect itself, the aircraft carrier remains a difficult mobile target to hit. It is accompanied by defense frigates equipped to counter threats and preserve the vessel, while the onboard aircraft also provide protection. Attempts to attack with drones and missiles by Iran and the Houthis have already failed. The next aircraft carrier is designed to remain operational for several decades and adapt to new threats and changes in its environment.
Is there a risk of it becoming obsolete by its delivery in 2038? There will inevitably be technological advancements in 12 years, but the vessel is planned to integrate them. It is a complex object that requires thorough planning and will not be obsolete upon launch. While some describe the aircraft carrier as a costly and vulnerable target, its defense systems are very advanced against aerial, maritime, and submarine threats. It also contributes to protecting other ships around it.
The program is estimated at around €10 billion, is the cost justified? The €10 billion covers study, development, construction, and commissioning, with nearly one billion for the nuclear propulsion system. The aircraft carrier will be largely built using French systems and companies, benefiting the national economy.
What is the interest of nuclear propulsion? France, along with the United States, is the only country to use nuclear propulsion on aircraft carriers. It is a strategic choice that allows the vessel to operate independently of refueling on land and move quickly over long distances.
What will happen to the Charles de Gaulle? The Charles de Gaulle will remain in service during the transition, but there are no plans to extend its lifespan to operate two vessels simultaneously. This would be too costly and require too many human resources, approximately 2,000 people per ship. The transition will occur with the new aircraft carrier.
Context: The article discusses the replacement of the current French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle with a new vessel named “France Libre” by 2038.
Fact Check: The article includes responses by Victor Masson, a naval expert at the FRS, on the need for a new aircraft carrier, its design, cost justifications, adaptation to modern conflicts, nuclear propulsion, and the future of the Charles de Gaulle.
