
France has achieved great success in the defense industry by 2024, achieving exports worth 18 billion euros. This was recorded as the second best year in the country's history. According to the statements of French Minister of Forces Sébastien Lecornu, this success is directly linked to the increase in global military spending and France's strong position in the defense industry. Lecornu emphasized that France should not miss this opportunity in a fiercely competitive environment.
Record in Defense Exports
France’s defense exports are particularly notable for products such as Rafale fighter jets, submarines, and the new generation SAMP/T air defense systems. In 2024, these products brought France’s defense exports to approximately $19 billion. Rafale fighter jets and submarines are among the products that have the largest share in this success. According to information provided by Defense News, these high-tech products have strengthened France’s influence in the military field around the world.
France’s goal of strategic autonomy is also supported by export figures, which would allow France to maintain the ability to build its own fighter jets and nuclear-powered submarines without being dependent on major economic powers such as the United States or China.
Artificial Intelligence and Innovative Defense Technologies
Another important focus for the future of France’s defense industry is artificial intelligence and innovation. Lecornu said that investing in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence will reinforce France’s leadership in the global defense industry. “The year 2025 should be a turning point that will make France one of the world’s leading countries in the field of artificial intelligence,” the minister said.
France aims to gain competitive advantage in both domestic and foreign markets with its innovative solutions in this area. Lecornu emphasized that innovative technologies should be put into action to reduce production costs and produce in larger quantities. He also noted that these strategies will increase France's competitiveness in the export market.
Global Position of France’s Defense Exports
France stands out as a major player in the global arms trade. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), France was the second largest arms supplier after the United States during the 2019-2023 period. France, which accounts for 11% of global arms exports, uses arms exports as a strategic tool to both gain economic gain and strengthen its national security.
Lecornu stated that the growth of the defense industry is of critical importance for France. “Exporting our weapons is vital to developing our defense industry and ensuring that France creates jobs,” Lecornu said, adding that exports contribute to the country’s sovereignty and are part of the national defense strategy.
Goals for 2025
France plans to break a new record in defense exports in 2025. Lecornu aims to bring France’s defense industry to an even stronger position on a global scale with investments and strategies that will take the success achieved in 2024 even further. In line with this, the defense industry is planned to continue to produce innovative solutions and increase exports of products supported by advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence.
France aims not only to increase its economic and technological power, but also to make significant contributions to international security and strategy.