France and Germany Deepen Defence Ties to Boost Europe’s Security
France and Germany have agreed to strengthen their defence partnership as Europe seeks greater military autonomy amid evolving global security challenges. During a joint meeting in Bruehl, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to expand cooperation on missile defence, long-range strike systems and broader security initiatives.
In a landmark move, German troops will participate in a French nuclear exercise for the first time, reflecting closer strategic coordination between the two countries. Macron reaffirmed that France would continue to fully finance its own nuclear deterrent, while Merz said any future cooperation would complement NATO’s existing defence framework rather than replace it.
The two leaders also voiced concerns over China’s industrial overcapacity and currency policies, arguing they place European industries under increasing pressure. Despite recent setbacks in their joint fighter aircraft programme, France and Germany confirmed that key elements of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project will continue, with improved oversight to strengthen future defence collaboration.
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