ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE
Article Published on: 17TH MAR 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com
French President Emmanuel Macron is urging European Union nations to prioritize European-made defense equipment over American alternatives. In an interview with French media, Macron stressed the need to support local defense industries, citing alternatives like the Franco-Italian SAMP/T missile system instead of the U.S. Patriot and the Rafale fighter jet as a substitute for the F-35.
His remarks come as European NATO members deepen their reliance on U.S. weaponry. Belgium and the Netherlands recently confirmed purchases of F-35 fighter jets, while Portugal remains undecided on replacing its F-16 fleet.
Beyond defense procurement, Macron also addressed potential European troop deployments to Ukraine. He suggested sending a few thousand troops per nation for training and support roles, reinforcing long-term commitments without direct combat involvement.
Macron’s push highlights France’s broader ambition to bolster European defense independence while reducing reliance on American military hardware.