Merz confirms Germany’s first role in French nuclear drills

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has confirmed that the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) will participate in France’s nuclear exercises this year for the first time, marking a significant step in defence cooperation between the two European powers.

“Germany and France are deepening defence cooperation; we are strengthening European deterrence,” Merz said in a post on X, adding that German forces would take part in the French armed forces’ nuclear drills before the end of the year.

Deutschland und Frankreich vertiefen ihre Zusammenarbeit in der Verteidigung. Wir stärken die europäische Abschreckung. Noch in diesem Jahr werden wir uns an einer nuklearen Übung der französischen Streitkräfte beteiligen. pic.twitter.com/zTtA1eoCHY

— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) July 17, 2026

The move comes as Berlin and Paris seek to strengthen Europe’s defence capabilities and enhance coordination amid growing security concerns across the continent.

Earlier, German news agency DPA reported, citing government sources, that the two countries had begun taking practical steps towards closer cooperation in the area of nuclear deterrence.

According to the report, German military personnel are expected to participate in French nuclear manoeuvres scheduled for the autumn.