Macron: Germany to play 'vanguard role' in European nuclear deterrence

Published Jul 22, 09:39 AM UTC

France and Germany have moved from words to action in nuclear cooperation, with a French nuclear-capable Rafale jet temporarily hosted at Nörvenich air base near Cologne. This follows the formation of a 'nuclear steering group' in March as part of France's new 'forward deterrence' doctrine, which extends its nuclear umbrella to European allies. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed Germany will participate in the French 'Poker' nuclear exercise in September with conventional forces. Macron stated Germany will play a 'vanguard role' in European deterrence. The initiative, which includes nine countries from Norway to Greece, supplements NATO's existing U.S.-led nuclear sharing arrangement. France retains sole sovereignty over nuclear weapons and decision-making, while allies contribute conventional support and host French aircraft. The cooperation comes despite strains from the collapse of the joint FCAS project.