France has approved plans to build a new, next-generation aircraft carrier to replace its ageing Charles de Gaulle, the country’s only carrier, which is expected to retire by 2038.
The announcement was made by President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to French troops stationed at a military base in Abu Dhabi, close to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints for oil shipments. The decision to start the project was made earlier this week following detailed assessments.
The new carrier is part of the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG) programme, which is expected to cost about €10–10.25 billion ($11.7–12 billion). Work on nuclear propulsion components started last year, and the project’s final budget approval will be part of the 2025 defence budget.
The ship is planned to enter service in 2038, replacing the Charles de Gaulle, which has been in operation since 2001.
Once completed, the PANG will be
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