Fabien Mandon, the Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces, has expressed concerns regarding the slow and costly production of military equipment in France, labeling it a significant threat to national defense. His remarks highlight the urgency for improvements as France risks falling behind Germany in military capabilities.
According to a report by Politico, Mandon’s comments were made during private Senate hearings held in April and May, where he discussed the updated military planning law. He stated, “I am not satisfied with the current level of production and believe that its inadequacy poses a threat to our national defense.”
Mandon acknowledged that while French companies are capable of producing high-tech products, they struggle with efficiency and cost-effectiveness. He specifically mentioned the European missile manufacturer MBDA, noting that despite operating around the clock, the company lacks sufficient production lines.
These concerns come nearly four years after President Emmanuel Macron urged French companies to transition towards a war economy. Mandon indicated that the French military has not yet reached the necessary level of preparedness to tackle future challenges, particularly emphasizing the inadequacy of the air force.
Although Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Macron initially promised an additional 30 Rafale fighter jets, the current military planning law does not include provisions for new combat aircraft. Mandon suggested that Air Force Commander Jérôme Bellanger could rapidly establish a squadron of drones capable of flying 3,000 kilometers while carrying explosives weighing between 200 and 400 kilograms.
Furthermore, Mandon warned of the risks associated with falling behind Germany. He stated, “We could fall behind. If Germany continues at this pace, in five years the argument that we have operational experience and a certain culture will no longer apply.”
He noted that Germany is increasingly viewed as a European model by the United States. By 2029, Germany is expected to allocate €153 billion annually for defense, which is approximately 3.5% of its GDP. In contrast, France aims to reach around €76.3 billion by 2030. The updated military planning law includes an additional €36 billion for defense by 2030, yet does not account for the procurement of extra aircraft or naval vessels.
The lower house of Parliament has generally approved the government’s proposal, while the Senate insists on increased funding and more military equipment. In response to criticisms that the proposed expenditure increases are insufficient, Mandon stated that any substantial enhancement would need to be addressed by the next president. Macron, who supports higher military budgets and closer NATO integration, is in the final year of his presidency, with his successor to be elected in 2027.
Fabien Mandon, the Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces, has raised alarms about the slow pace of military production in France, warning it undermines national defense. His comments reflect a growing concern that France may lag behind Germany in military capabilities, particularly as both nations prepare for future defense challenges.