French Parliamentary Report Urges Construction of a Second Aircraft Carrier by 2029

A French parliamentary advisory report recommends ordering a second next-generation aircraft carrier by 2029 to provide continuous availability of a national carrier strike group. The proposed ship would be a sister to France Libre, the nuclear-powered carrier intended to replace Charles de Gaulle in 2038, allowing maintenance periods to be staggered. The report estimates a second hull could cost roughly 30 percent less than the lead vessel and advocates consecutive construction to preserve industrial savings. It also proposes 12 additional Rafale M fighters and two E-2D aircraft, but remains a legislative recommendation requiring government approval and funding.