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SOURCE: AFI

At Euronaval 2024 in Paris, Naval Group has introduced France’s ambitious next-generation aircraft carrier, designed to enhance operational capabilities for decades. The carrier, which has been in development as part of France’s modernization efforts, is set to include three state-of-the-art electromagnetic catapults—a notable upgrade from the two initially envisioned—positioning it as one of the most advanced platforms for carrier-based aviation. This new design underscores France’s commitment to bolstering its naval strength and ensuring operational superiority alongside key allies, as it prepares for the integration of the New Generation Fighter (NGF) developed under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program.

The carrier’s three electromagnetic catapults, an increase from the planned two, will significantly enhance sortie rates, reducing aircraft launch cycles while also accommodating heavier and more advanced fighters. This upgrade aligns with the French Navy’s intention to incorporate the NGF from the FCAS program, ensuring that France’s next-generation carrier can launch and recover advanced fighter jets with increased payloads and sophisticated avionics. The integration of the NGF, a cutting-edge fighter being developed collaboratively by France, Germany, and Spain, will give the carrier strike group enhanced air power and adaptability to emerging threats.

Naval Group’s reveal at Euronaval comes amid ongoing discussions about collaboration with international partners, including India, on aircraft carrier development. In the past, France had expressed interest in a joint development initiative with India, offering its expertise in nuclear propulsion, electromagnetic launch systems, and advanced deck configuration. This proposal aligns with India’s broader defense modernization goals, as the Indian Navy has long been interested in adding more powerful, versatile carriers to its fleet. A joint venture could open opportunities for technology transfer and strategic cooperation, strengthening India’s defense industrial base.

France’s offer to collaborate with India on carrier technology reflects a broader trend among European nations, with the UK also signaling interest in supporting India’s carrier ambitions. The UK, which operates two conventionally powered carriers—the HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales—has experience with large-scale carrier programs that could benefit India. Both France and the UK have sophisticated design capabilities and decades of operational expertise, which could greatly benefit India’s carrier program.

Despite these international offers, India has opted to focus on expanding its own Vikrant-class carriers, with plans to procure a sister ship of the INS Vikrant. This choice reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to indigenous development and self-reliance in defense. The INS Vikrant, which entered service recently as India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, is a 44,000-ton vessel that has helped boost India’s shipbuilding capabilities and self-sufficiency. The Indian Navy’s plan to commission a sister ship is a strategic decision to quickly expand carrier strength without incurring the time and cost of developing an entirely new class.

After commissioning the Vikrant-class sister ship, India’s long-term goal remains the acquisition of a larger, more advanced aircraft carrier. This vessel, likely to be nuclear-powered and potentially in the 65,000-ton range, would enable India to project power far beyond its shores and respond to complex security challenges across the Indo-Pacific region. The Indian Navy envisions a carrier equipped with advanced fighter jets, increased deck space, and the latest in radar and missile systems, aligning with its vision of a Blue Water Navy capable of sustained overseas operations.

France’s next-generation carrier and its collaboration offers to India indicate the growing significance of carrier-based naval power in contemporary maritime strategy. With an advanced, nuclear-powered carrier fleet, France aims to maintain its influence over key maritime regions, including the Mediterranean and the Indo-Pacific. Meanwhile, for India, securing self-sufficiency in carrier development is critical for its security needs and geopolitical ambitions in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The shared strategic objectives between France and India could pave the way for deeper defense cooperation, not only in carrier development but also in other maritime technologies. If India eventually considers France’s or the UK’s offers for collaboration on future platforms, it could lead to a more capable, versatile fleet that aligns with evolving security imperatives.