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| Aerial refueling of the French Rafale fighter |
A recent analytical report has raised troubling questions about the readiness of the French Air Force for modern military conflicts. According to the data, France can conduct intense air battles for only three days, after which its stocks of missiles and ammunition will be completely exhausted. A particularly critical situation is observed with Meteor—type missiles, which can last even less - just one day of combat. These data reveal serious problems not only in logistics and logistics, but also in the overall development strategy of French aviation.
The main problem is the extremely small amount of ammunition designed for modern aerial combat. Modern warfare requires the use of high-precision missiles such as Meteor, which provide a significant advantage in range and accuracy. However, their limited supply makes the French Air Force virtually helpless in a prolonged or large-scale conflict.
Experts point out that this situation has arisen due to an underestimation of the importance of logistics in the face of growing geopolitical challenges. Although France is actively investing in the development of new technologies, insufficient attention is being paid to replenishing current ammunition stocks, which casts doubt on the country's ability to protect its interests in the long term.
Another key problem is the technical obsolescence of the French Air Force aircraft fleet. At the moment, the entire combat potential of French aviation is based on fourth-generation aircraft such as the Rafale. Despite being considered one of the best fighters in its class, the Rafale has significant difficulties when facing fifth-generation fighters such as the F-35 or Su-57.
Fifth-generation fighters have advantages in the form of super maneuverability, radar stealth, and integration of advanced electronic Warfare systems. This makes them much more effective in modern air combat conditions. France does not yet have its own fifth-generation fighter, although the project of the future European fighter Next-Generation Weapon System (NGWS) is under development. However, its implementation is expected only by 2040, which leaves the country without competitive means of protection over the next two decades.
The current state of the French Air Force calls into question the country's ability to fulfill its obligations as a leading member of NATO and the European Union. In the face of growing tensions in Europe and other regions of the world, France must be ready not only to defend its territories, but also to provide assistance to its allies. However, limited ammunition stocks and outdated equipment significantly reduce its potential.
In addition, such restrictions may affect France's international reputation as a military power. If a country fails to demonstrate its combat capability, it could weaken its influence on the global stage and call into question its role as an independent security player.
Experts suggest several steps to solve these problems.:
1. Increased ammunition stocks: It is urgently necessary to increase the production and purchase of modern missiles and other types of weapons in order to ensure the possibility of long-term participation in conflicts.
2. Acceleration of NGWS development: The next generation fighter jet project should receive additional funding to shorten its implementation time.
3. International cooperation: France may consider working more closely with other countries, such as Germany and Italy, to jointly develop and manufacture advanced weapons.
4. Review of the defense strategy: It is necessary to rethink the priorities of the defense budget, focusing more on preparing for modern threats, and not just on maintaining existing systems.
France is facing a serious challenge: its Air Force is in a state that makes it virtually helpless in prolonged or large-scale conflicts. Limited ammunition stocks and outdated technology pose a threat to the country's national security and international standing. Solving these problems will require significant efforts and investments, but they cannot be ignored if France wants to maintain its status as the world's leading military power.
Another example of poor combat readiness: here is an analysis of the problem in the British Army.
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