'Free France': Macron reveals name of Europe's largest warship

AFP / France 24
by FRANCE24
March 19, 2026
3 min read

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President Emmanuel Macron announced Wednesday that France's next nuclear-powered aircraft carrier will be named "France Libre" (Free France), signaling the country's commitment to maintaining maritime dominance in Europe. The vessel, scheduled to enter service in 2038, will replace France's current sole carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, and become the largest warship ever constructed in Europe once completed. The naming reflects France's ambition to reinforce its status as a major naval power at a time when European nations face growing security concerns and strategic competition. The carrier represents a major investment in French military capability and industrial capacity, with construction timelines extending well into the next decade.

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