Macron Announces Rafale Base Upgrade for EU Defense

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced the upgrade of the Luxeuil-Saint-Sauveur air base to host Rafale fighter jets armed with advanced hypersonic nuclear missiles by 2035, marking a renewed focus on France's nuclear deterrence capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster Europe's defense amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict and uncertainties surrounding U.S. involvement in European security. Macron's plan involves a significant investment of $1.6 billion to modernize the base, which will include doubling its personnel to accommodate two Rafale squadrons. The Rafale F5 jets, designed to carry the ASN4G hypersonic missile, represent a leap in technological capabilities for France. Macron is also advocating for a shift from American to European defense systems, urging NATO members to consider the Franco-Italian SAMP/T and Rafale jets over U.S. alternatives. His announcements come as part of a strategic push for Europe to become more autonomous in defense, amidst what he describes as an increasingly dangerous global environment.