The nuclear umbrella means the protection that a state with the atomic weapon offers its allies, a guarantee that France could extend to Europe to strengthen its security in the face of current threats.

Europe is a turning point. Geopolitical tensions increase. Russia deploys missiles in Belarus. The United States shows signs of disengagement. Faced with these challenges, Emmanuel Macron offers a debate. He suggestsextend French nuclear deterrence to Europe. France is the only nuclear power in the European Union. It has approximately 290 nuclear warheads. This strike force is designed to protect the vital interests of the country. But can it extend to the whole of Europe? The concept of “nuclear umbrella” is not new. It designates the guarantee given by nuclear power to non -nuclear allies. The United States has done so with NATO, Japan and South Korea. The question is whether France can offer such a guarantee to Europe.

Major challenges

Extending French nuclear deterrence to Europe asks complex questions. First of all, French doctrine is based on independence. The decision to use nuclear weapons belongs exclusively to the French president. Sharing this responsibility would imply a deep revision of this doctrine. Then there is the question of capacity. The French arsenal is calibrated for the “strict sufficiency”. He is Designed to inflict “unacceptable damage” to an opponent threatening France.

To cover the whole of Europe, a significant increase in the number of nuclear heads would be necessary. This would pose major financial and industrial challenges. In addition, would the credibility of such an extended deterrence be at stake. Would European allies agree to delegate their nuclear security to France? And would France be ready to hire its arsenal to defend another European country?

Is this perspective possible?

Macron’s proposal aims to strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy. It responds to growing uncertainty about American engagement. However, the implementation of a European nuclear umbrella requires close cooperation. It implies a redefinition of defense doctrines and reinforced mutual trust.

Some European countries could consider contributing financially to the maintenance and development of the French striking force. In exchange, they could hope for a certain influence on French nuclear policy. However, this would question France’s strategic autonomy …