France, Germany expand defence partnership as Europe seeks more military autonomy
France and Germany have agreed to significantly strengthen their defence partnership as Europe pushes for greater military independence amid growing global security challenges and uncertainty over long-term U.S. support.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron announced the expanded cooperation during a meeting in Brühl, Germany. The two leaders pledged to work more closely on key military projects, including missile defence, long-range strike capabilities, space security, and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a next-generation European fighter jet programme that has faced repeated delays and disagreements.
One of the most significant developments is closer cooperation on nuclear deterrence. Germany's conventional military forces are expected to participate in a French nuclear exercise later this year, marking a new level of strategic collaboration. However, President Macron stressed that France's nuclear weapons will remain under exclusive French control and financing.
The two leaders also highlighted the need for Europe to become more self-reliant in defence as geopolitical tensions increase. They criticized what they described as unfair economic competition from China, arguing that heavy state support and market distortions are putting European industries and jobs under pressure. At the same time, Chancellor Merz said Europe should continue dialogue with Beijing rather than enter a trade war.
Despite past disputes over joint defence projects, France and Germany said they are determined to improve coordination and governance to prevent future setbacks. Both governments believe stronger military cooperation will help Europe respond more effectively to security threats and reduce its dependence on external allies, reinforcing the continent's long-term strategic autonomy.