France advances in its commitment to the naval projection of the future with a ship that aspires to mark an era. The new Porte Avions Nouvelle Génération, known as PANG, will replace the current Charles de Gaulle in Europe. The information, disseminated by the specialized media, details a program that combines technological ambition, industrial muscle and a strong strategic component.
The official announcement came from President Emmanuel Macron during an intervention before French troops deployed near the Strait of Hormuz, in Abu Dhabi. There he confirmed that the construction of the ship has already begun and that the total cost of the program will be around 10,250 million euros. With the acquisitions included in the French 2025 budget, financing for the execution phase is assured.
The PANG will be built in Saint Nazaire by the Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Naval Group shipyards, two pillars of the French naval industry. If the planned deadlines are met, it will enter service in 2038. Its dimensions are impressive even in an international context: 310 meters in length, more than 85 meters of beam on the flight deck and 39 meters on the waterline. Fully loaded, it will displace about 78,000 tons.
Thanks to nuclear propulsion, based on two new generation K22 reactors, the aircraft carrier will be able to reach speeds of up to 27 knots. This power represents a notable leap compared to Charles de Gaulle’s K15 reactors. and will allow prolonged operations to be maintained without the need for refueling, a key advantage for long range missions.
On deck, the PANG will be prepared to operate at least 40 aircraft. The air group will include 36 fighters, two or three early warning aircraft, several helicopters and a dozen light drones. For its launch, two or three EMALS electromagnetic catapults will be installed, a more advanced and versatile system than traditional steam catapults. In addition, the design contemplates the integration of directed energy weapons, a technology that is still emerging but with great defensive potential.
Beyond its figures, the project stands out for its evolutionary approach. The PANG is conceived as an adaptable platform, capable of incorporating new technologies throughout its operational life. At the center of this philosophy is a heavily data-driven combat system, designed to accelerate decision-making and improve coordination between sensors, weapons and aircraft.
With this aircraft carrier, but also to be at the forefront of 21st century naval warfarebetting on a ship that combines power, flexibility and room for evolution over decades.
