France’s naval capabilities are poised to undergo a significant evolution with the development of the next-generation aircraft carrier, the PANG (Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération), an ambitious project that promises to extend the country’s power projection and enhance strategic autonomy.

In a decisive move signaling the impending construction of this state-of-the-art vessel, the French Ministry of Defense awarded contracts on April 26, 2024, for the procurement of long-lead items essential for the PANG’s advanced propulsion system.

These contracts, valued at €600 million ($642.7 million), have been distributed among three key industrial players: Naval Group, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and TechnicAtome.

This triumvirate will orchestrate the development of the nuclear reactors and containment structures, and adapt industrial facilities for the upcoming construction phase in Saint-Nazaire.

As the PANG’s technical specifications emerge, it is clear that France is building not just a carrier, but a technological titan of the seas. The vessel boasts an impressive full load displacement of approximately 75,000 tons, an overall length of 310 meters, and a flight deck spanning roughly 17,000 square meters. Capable of achieving speeds exceeding 30 knots, the PANG will be more agile than its predecessor, the Charles de Gaulle.

Notably, the PANG is expected to be fitted with electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) by General Atomics, with industry sources hinting at the decision to install three such catapults for enhanced operational flexibility.

The significance of this system cannot be overstated, as EMALS allows for a broader range of aircraft launches, from heavyweight fighter jets to unmanned drones, fortifying France’s maritime airpower.

The French Navy’s commitment to innovation extends to the anticipated deployment of directed energy weapons (DEWs), signaling a new era in naval warfare where the PANG will serve as a critical asset within the Indo-Pacific region.

Moreover, the carrier’s nuclear reactors, capable of delivering up to 230 megawatts, will fuel these advanced systems while maintaining autonomy at sea.

The PANG is scheduled to commence its “definition phase,” culminating in December 2025 with a functional review. If all goes according to plan, the development and production phase will launch between the end of 2025 and early 2026, leading to a construction start in early 2031 at Saint-Nazaire.

Sea trials are earmarked for the end of 2035 or early 2036, with delivery, commissioning, and full operational capability expected by the late 2030s.

While the future carrier is set to retain the CATOBAR system for aircraft recovery, marking a continuity in French naval engineering, its integration with France’s strategic forces is intended to be seamless. The PANG will be capable of embarking approximately 30 next-generation fighter jets, thus reinforcing its role as a formidable instrument of national defense and strategic projection.

As the PANG program progresses, a French Navy Rafale M is slated to commence land-based tests and integration with the EMALS and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) at Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst in New Jersey next year. This integration is critical, as it underlines the carrier’s interoperability with cutting-edge aviation technologies.

The PANG’s development is a monumental undertaking that mirrors France’s resolve to uphold its naval supremacy and strategic reach in the 21st century.

As the project unfolds, it stands as a testament to France’s commitment to maintaining a formidable presence on the world’s oceans and securing its position as a leading maritime power.

Relevant articles:
– France Orders First Long Lead Items for PANG Aircraft Carrier Program, Naval News
– France’s New PANG Aircraft Carrier is Shaping Up Fast: Armed With Lasers, The National Interest
– France Orders Long-Lead Items for Future PA-NG, TURDEF