Media: Macron unveils plans to station nuclear-armed Rafale jets at Luxeuil Air Base

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that Rafale fighter jets, equipped with nuclear warheads, will be stationed at the Luxeuil Air Base, located on the border with Germany.

This move marks a significant step in France's military strategy, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

President Macron confirmed that by 2035, Luxeuil will become the first airbase to host the new version of the Rafale fighter jet, which will be fitted with nuclear supersonic warheads.

The decision underscores France's continued investment in its nuclear deterrence capabilities and its commitment to modernizing its defence forces. According to the French Senate’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Armed Forces, the first Rafale fighter jets are expected to arrive at the Luxeuil Air Base by 2032. 

By 2033, these aircraft will be operational as part of the first squadron. In total, approximately 40 such fighter jets will be stationed at the base.

Earlier, Europe 1 radio reported that the French Ministry of Armed Forces has started sending out survival instructions for citizens in case of war, along with a call to enlist in the reserve forces. 

The instructions, which span around 20 pages, outline procedures for dealing with armed conflicts, natural disasters, or epidemics. Luxeuil Air Base is a French military airbase located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, near the border with Germany. Originally established in 1939, it has played a significant role in France's defence infrastructure for decades. The base is strategically important due to its proximity to central Europe and its location near NATO member countries. 

Historically, Luxeuil Air Base has been home to various aircraft, including fighters and reconnaissance planes. It is part of France's broader air defence network, contributing to national and NATO security operations. The base also supports France's nuclear deterrence capabilities, making it a key facility for the French Air Force. With the upcoming deployment of Rafale jets armed with nuclear warheads by 2035, Luxeuil is set to continue its critical role in the nation's defence strategy.

By Naila Huseynova