France may place an order for the construction of a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the PA-NG (Porte-Avions de Nouvelle Génération), by the end of 2025, according to the latest annual report by the shipbuilding company Naval Group.
The aircraft carrier will be capable of hosting around 40 aerial vehicles, including Rafale M fighter jets, airborne early warning aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs. It will also be equipped with modern radar systems, anti-air missile launchers, and close-in defense systems.
The project includes provisions for integrating weapons based on new physical principles, including laser systems.
The construction of the vessel is planned to begin between 2031 and 2032 at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, with commissioning expected in 2038. The project is estimated to cost over €10 billion. The possibility of building a second aircraft carrier remains uncertain due to budgetary constraints.