France to raise defence budget to €76 billion by 2030 under new plan

France is considering a significant increase in military spending as part of a revision of its Military Programming Law for 2024–2030.

Originally, €413 billion had been allocated for defence over the six years, but the new draft proposes adding a further €36 billion, Caliber.Az reports, citing French media.

If adopted, France’s annual defence budget could reach around €76.3 billion by 2030, or approximately 2.5% of GDP.

Co-rapporteur of the bill Jean-Louis Thiériot described the initiative as effectively a “two-year program” and noted that even the increased funding may prove insufficient amid “existential threats” and rising tensions in Europe.

Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin said the country must prepare for “prolonged and high-intensity crises,” including hybrid threats.

The opposition criticised the proposal, saying it is either overdue or simply reallocates existing spending.

Key areas of increased funding include ammunition, with an additional €8.5 billion allocated, as well as new security measures such as expanded capabilities to counter drones, strengthened cyber intelligence, and the creation of a new form of voluntary military service.

The document reflects France’s course toward strengthening its defence capabilities amid growing geopolitical tensions, including the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov