Growing Support for a European Nuclear Umbrella
A recent survey by BFMTV and Elabe found that 59% of French citizens support using the country’s nuclear arsenal to protect EU member states. As reported by WP Tech, support is strongest among left-wing voters (76%), centrists aligned with President Emmanuel Macron (84%), and moderate conservatives (65%). However, only 39% of far-right voters favor the idea.
France is the only EU country with an independent nuclear deterrent. Unlike the UK, which relies on U.S. technology for its nuclear arsenal, France maintains full control over its strategic and tactical nuclear forces. While discussions about an EU-wide nuclear umbrella have been ongoing for years, this new level of public support could push the idea further.
France’s Nuclear Arsenal and Strategy
France operates a robust nuclear deterrent, centered around four Le Triomphant-class nuclear submarines, each capable of launching 16 intercontinental ballistic missiles with a range of up to 10,000 km. These missiles, equipped with multiple warheads, are designed as a last-resort deterrent.
In addition to its submarine-based arsenal, France also deploys ASMP-A nuclear cruise missiles on Rafale fighter jets. These missiles, which travel at speeds up to Mach 3 (3,700 km/h), provide a flexible nuclear strike capability. France is currently testing a new ASMP-R missile and developing the next-generation ASN4G, expected to reach hypersonic speeds of Mach 6-8.
A Strategic Shift for Europe?
France’s nuclear doctrine allows for “final warnings,” meaning nuclear weapons could be used as a deterrent before a full-scale conflict. With growing security concerns in Europe, especially regarding Russia, the idea of a European nuclear shield could gain traction. However, formalizing such an agreement would require extensive political and military coordination among EU states.
As geopolitical tensions rise, France’s nuclear strategy could play a key role in shaping Europe’s defense policies. Whether the EU officially adopts a shared nuclear deterrent remains uncertain, but public opinion is increasingly supportive of stronger European security measures.
