Technical and scientific analysis of the geopolitical impact of France being the only manufacturer of combat aircraft in Europe, in the face of American aircraft purchases.

The military aviation industry plays a crucial role in national sovereignty and geopolitical influence. In Europe, France, via Dassault Aviation, is a major player in the construction of combat aircraft. However, a situation where France is the sole European manufacturer, while other European nations choose American fighter jets, could have significant geopolitical consequences. This article explores these implications in depth.

Aircraft production in France: a European leader

France has a long tradition of building military aircraft, exemplified by the Rafale from Dassault Aviation. The Rafale is a multi-role aircraft capable of a wide range of missions, from air defense to strategic strike. Featuring advanced technologies, it offers remarkable performance, with a top speed of Mach 1.8 (1,912 km/h) and a range of 3,700 km.

By 2023, Dassault Aviation has delivered 13 Rafales, generating sales of 5.49 billion euros. This production capacity ensures a degree of strategic autonomy for France, reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers. Such a position gives France considerable influence over European defense policy.

European dependence on American aircraft

Many European countries opt for American fighter jets, notably Lockheed Martin’s F-35 Lightning II. The F-35 is renowned for its stealth and data fusion capabilities. In 2023, the F-35 program generated around 14.6 billion euros in sales worldwide.

This dependence on the USA could pose strategic challenges for Europe. Increased integration of U.S. systems into European air forces could limit the operational autonomy of European countries, subjecting their defense capabilities to U.S. foreign policy. What’s more, critical technologies and upgrades would largely depend on decisions taken in Washington.

Advantages of French supremacy

Economic advantages

French supremacy in fighter aircraft production would bring significant economic benefits. Consolidation of European orders would enable economies of scale, reducing production costs and increasing the competitiveness of the Rafale. It would also create skilled jobs and stimulate technological innovation in France.

Strategic advantages

France’s dominant position would strengthen its ability to influence European defense policies. By being the main supplier, France could play a central role in standardizing equipment and military doctrines within the EU, facilitating closer cooperation and a collective response to threats.

Disadvantages of French Supremacy

External dependence on other European countries

By buying mainly American fighter jets, European countries run the risk of becoming over-dependent on the USA. This could limit their strategic autonomy, making them vulnerable to fluctuations in US foreign policy.

Risk of European fragmentation

If France is the only European manufacturer, this could accentuate divergences between EU countries. Countries without their own aerospace industry could feel a strategic inequality, creating tensions within the Union. This fragmentation could weaken European cohesion in terms of defense.

Geopolitical consequences

France’s geopolitical influence

As Europe’s leading supplier of fighter aircraft, France could strengthen its geopolitical influence. It would become an essential partner for defense operations and military interventions, playing a leading role in European security.

Impact on Transatlantic relations

European dependence on US fighter aircraft would strengthen transatlantic ties, but at the cost of reduced strategic autonomy for Europe. The USA could use this dependence as leverage in diplomatic negotiations, influencing the foreign policy decisions of European countries.

The situation where France would be the sole manufacturer of combat aircraft in Europe, in the face of a marked preference for American aircraft by other European countries, has complex geopolitical implications. While this may strengthen France’s economic and strategic influence, it poses significant challenges in terms of external dependence and European cohesion. A balanced and collaborative approach within Europe is essential to maintain strategic autonomy while strengthening transatlantic cooperation.

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