France to deploy 40 nuclear-capable Rafale Jets at German border by 2032 – France 3

 France plans to station 40 Rafale fighter jets, capable of carrying nuclear warheads, at Luxeuil-Saint-Sauveur airbase near the German border by 2032, French broadcaster France 3 reported on Tuesday.

President Emmanuel Macron is visiting the airbase ahead of his meeting with Friedrich Merz, the likely next German chancellor, the report said.

According to France 3, Macron's visit aims to underscore the base’s strategic role for France and NATO, with potential for a nuclear-oriented shift.

The modernization of the base to accommodate nuclear weapons will cost an estimated €900 million, while the military personnel stationed there will increase from 1,200 to 2,000.

Earlier in March, Macron claimed Moscow posed a threat to Paris and Europe, suggesting a discussion on using France’s nuclear arsenal for the defense of the European Union.