Germany could become Europe's new military superpower. French Army Chief of Staff Warns: 'We risk falling behind'
France faces a real risk of losing its position as the military leader in Europe to Germany amid delays in arms production and capabilities deemed insufficient for future security challenges, warns French Army Chief of Staff General Fabien Mandon.
German soldiers PHOTO: X/@visegrad24
In statements made during closed-door hearings in the French Senate in April and May, the general drew attention that “France has not yet reached the level necessary to fully face future challenges” and pointed out that Germany could overtake France in the coming years, becoming the main military power of the continent, writes Politico.
“We could fall behind. If Germany continues at this rate, in five years, the argument that we have operational experience and a certain culture will no longer hold.”said General Fabien Mandon, adding that “for Americans, Germany is gradually becoming the European reference”.
According to the estimates presented, by 2029 Germany would reach defense expenditures of approximately 153 billion euros annually, i.e. around 3.5% of GDP – the largest military expansion since reunification. In comparison, France plans to reach around €76.3 billion by 2030.
The talks took place in the context of updating France's military planning law, which provides for additional allocations of 36 billion euros by 2030, but does not include significant additional purchases of military aircraft or ships.
Although the National Assembly has largely approved the government's project, the Senate is requesting an increase in the budget and additional equipment, with the final vote expected this week.
General Mandon also warned of the possibility of a “shock” with Russia in the next three to four years, a scenario for which the French army must be prepared.
It pointed to major deficiencies, particularly in the air force, which was considered undersized. Although the government initially promised the purchase of 30 additional Rafale fighter jets, they do not appear in the current military programming law. In compensation, the development of a squadron of drones with a range of up to 3,000 km, capable of carrying explosive charges between 200 and 400 kg, is considered.
Mandon also criticized the production pace of the French defense industry, saying it represented a strategic vulnerability. Although companies like MBDA are operating at full capacity, the lack of sufficient production lines is limiting deliveries. “I am not satisfied with the current level of production and believe that its insufficiency is a threat to our national defense”he declared.
He also stated that French industry is capable of producing high-level military technology, but fails to manufacture it quickly enough and at competitive costs.
Regarding additional defense funding, the general suggested that major decisions will depend on the future president of France.
“What investments will France make in its defense? The answer will become clear after the upcoming presidential elections”, Mandon concluded.
