French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that he has ordered an increase in the number of nuclear warheads in France's arsenal, marking the first expansion in decades amid rising geopolitical tensions. Speaking at the Île Longue naval base in Brittany, home to France's four nuclear-armed submarines, Macron said an upgrade of the arsenal is essential to maintain deterrence.

France, which possesses the world's fourth-largest nuclear stockpile estimated at around 290 submarine- and air-launched warheads, will no longer disclose specific figures on its arsenal, reversing previous transparency practices. Macron emphasized that the move ends speculation and ensures France's nuclear forces remain strictly sufficient yet robust. "I have ordered an increase in the number of nuclear warheads in our arsenal," he stated.

In a significant shift, Macron unveiled a policy of "advanced deterrence," or "forward deterrence," allowing the temporary deployment of French nuclear-armed Rafale jets to eight European allies: Germany, Britain, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Sweden, and Denmark. These partners will also participate in French nuclear wargames and joint visits to strategic sites, with conventional forces potentially involved in exercises. France retains full sovereignty and control over its forces, positioning the initiative as complementary to NATO rather than a replacement.

The announcements come against a backdrop of heightened threats, including Russia's protracted war in Ukraine, China's military buildup, expanding arsenals in Asia, and instability in the Middle East where a U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict risks wider spillover. Uncertainty over U.S. commitments under President Donald Trump has prompted European leaders to seek greater reliance on continental capabilities. "We are currently experiencing a period of geopolitical upheaval fraught with risk," Macron said.

"To be free, we have to be feared," Macron declared, underscoring the need for Europeans to regain control of their security destiny. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed closer ties, stating, "We are arming up together with our friends so that our enemies will never dare to attack us."

Experts described the changes as the most significant evolution in French nuclear doctrine in 30 years. Bruno Tertrais of the Foundation for Strategic Research called it a vital backstop to NATO's umbrella, while others noted it addresses gaps in extended deterrence without sparking an arms race. France's nuclear forces, modernized under Macron, include constant submarine patrols and plans for a third nuclear-powered aircraft carrier by 2038.

The policy builds on ongoing efforts to strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy while maintaining alliance commitments.