France has officially launched the production phase of its Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PA-NG), marking a decisive milestone in securing the country’s long-term naval aviation capability and strategic autonomy. The programme, announced in late 2025, will deliver a next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to replace the Charles de Gaulle (R91) by 2038.

The PA-NG is designed as a core instrument of power projection, enabling France to sustain global air-sea operations while reinforcing national sovereignty and operational independence. Over a nearly 20-year timeline, the programme will mobilise the full spectrum of France’s defence industrial and technological base.

The new carrier integrates a range of next-generation technologies aimed at meeting future multi-domain operational requirements. Central to the design is a new nuclear propulsion system based on two K22 reactors, delivering significantly enhanced power, endurance and availability compared to previous generations.

The vessel will feature electromagnetic aircraft launch systems (EMALS), enabling the operation of a broader mix of manned and unmanned platforms, alongside a modular and cyber-secure combat system architecture designed to adapt to evolving threats and integrate future technologies such as artificial intelligence and collaborative combat systems.

Additionally, the PA-NG will incorporate **expanded internal capacity—approximately 40% greater than its predecessor—**as well as enhanced crew accommodations and support for advanced deterrence capabilities, including next-generation strike systems.

According to the official press kit (page 6), the PA-NG will rank among the most capable aircraft carriers ever built in Europe:

• Length: 310 metres
• Width: 90 metres
• Displacement: ~78,000 tonnes (full load)
• Maximum speed: 27 knots
• Propulsion: 2 × K22 nuclear reactors, 3 shaft lines
• Flight deck area: approx. 17,000 m²
• Air wing: ~30 next-generation combat aircraft, 2 AEW aircraft, 6 helicopters and drones
• Crew: approx. 2,000 personnel (ship + air group + command staff)
• Service life: ~45 years

The programme is led by Naval Group, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and TechnicAtome, under the supervision of the Direction générale de l’armement and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission.

Beyond its military significance, PA-NG represents a major national industrial undertaking. The programme will sustain an average of 8,800 jobs, peaking at 14,000, while engaging around 800 suppliers—over 600 of them SMEs—with more than 90% of procurement conducted within France.

Following design phases between 2019 and 2025, the programme has now entered full production. Construction and system integration will continue through the 2030s, with sea trials expected between 2036 and 2038, culminating in delivery to the French Navy.

The launch of the PA-NG production phase underscores France’s determination to maintain high-end naval capabilities, nuclear expertise, and strategic autonomy well into the mid-21st century. As a flagship programme combining advanced technology with industrial scale, the PA-NG will serve as a cornerstone of French and European maritime power projection for decades to come.