马克龙宣布建造欧洲最大航母

Core Viewpoint - France is set to construct a new aircraft carrier, which will be the largest warship ever built in Europe and a core component of its nuclear deterrent system [1][2] Group 1: Project Overview - The total cost of the new aircraft carrier project is approximately €102.5 billion (about ¥845 billion) [2] - The overall construction period is estimated to be 12 years, with plans for the carrier to be operational by 2038, coinciding with the retirement of the current "Charles de Gaulle" aircraft carrier [2] - The new carrier will feature a nuclear propulsion system, displacing nearly 80,000 tons, measuring about 310 meters in length and 85 meters in width, significantly larger than the current carrier [2] Group 2: Technical Specifications - The new aircraft carrier is expected to reach a maximum speed of 27 knots (approximately 50 km/h) and accommodate over 2,000 personnel, along with 30 aircraft [2] - It will be equipped with the French "Rafale" naval fighter jets, the American E-2D "Advanced Hawkeye" early warning aircraft, and various types of unmanned aerial vehicles [2] - The carrier will also include the "Aster" series vertical launch air defense missiles, a phased array radar capable of tracking up to 1,000 targets, and close-in defense systems [2] Group 3: Strategic Implications - The new carrier will incorporate a U.S.-made electromagnetic catapult system, which may increase France's reliance on American technology [3] - The project aligns with President Macron's push for European strategic autonomy, emphasizing the need for France and Europe to develop independent defense capabilities [3] - The carrier is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability from the Eastern Mediterranean to the Indo-Pacific region amid increasing global maritime competition [3] Group 4: Financial and Political Context - The announcement of the new aircraft carrier has sparked controversy in France, with public concerns about the high costs potentially diverting funds from social welfare and public services [4] - The French government is currently facing a budget impasse, which adds pressure to the project amid evolving security threats [4] - The French parliament has allocated €10.2 billion in multi-year commitments to support the development and construction of the new carrier [4] Group 5: Economic Impact - The project is expected to involve around 800 suppliers, with 80% being small and medium-sized enterprises, contributing to France's industrial and economic recovery [5] - Initial contracts are planned for approximately €7.3 billion, but most payments will occur after 2027, placing a financial burden on companies during the early stages [5] - The French government plans to pay €68 million for the project this year, with subsequent payments of €112 million and €142 million in the following two years [5]