Europe’s Biggest Warship 'France Libre' To Enter Service In 2038

The new aircraft carrier of the French Navy, France Libre, is set to become the largest European warship once it begins operations in 2038.

President of France Emmanuel Macron attended a ceremony at a Naval Group yard near Nantes, where he announced the official name of the latest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which is 1017 feet long and weighs around 78,000 tons.

The name of the carrier carries a deep meaning, referring to the Free France movement, led by Charles de Gaulle during World War II.

By christening the carrier ‘France Libre’, France means that it is not just a naval platform but a symbol of sovereignty and the ability to act independently.

Built under the ambitious PA-NG program, the aircraft carrier will replace the current flagship, Charles de Gaulle, which has been the backbone of the French naval forces for decades.

France Libre differs from Gaulle in many respects, especially in its technology, as it was designed to meet future operational needs.

It has an expansive deck and greater internal capacity, enabling high sortie rates. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier can carry over 40 aircraft, including Rafale fighter jets, early-warning aircraft, combat drones, and E-2D Hawkeyes.

Another differentiating feature is replacing steam systems with electromagnetic catapults for highly precise aircraft launches by reducing pressure and enabling the carrier to handle heavier airframes.

France Libre is powered by two K22 nuclear reactors and nuclear-electric propulsion, which offers more onboard energy capacity.

Its advanced energy systems will not only support autonomous aircraft operations and weapon launches but also enable the integration of future technologies, keeping the ship up to date even in the 2050s and beyond.

The carrier was built to operate in high-threat environments, hence it was equipped with vertical launch systems to fire Aster missiles. Its advanced defence system will provide rapid-response protection against anti-ship missiles and enemy aircraft.

France plans to deploy the new aircraft carrier as part of a larger task force with submarines, frigates and aircraft to create a more decentralised and efficient defence system.

This approach will allow France to operate independently in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific, without relying on foreign bases.

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