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Rafale Fighter Jets and Barracuda Submarines Propel French Arms Sales in 2024.
After a year marked by a decline in orders in 2023, France’s defense industrial and technological base (BITD) achieved significant growth in 2024, with exports reaching €18 billion. This performance underscores the strategic importance of arms exports for the French economy and national sovereignty, while also highlighting the inherent volatility of the sector.
These results were driven by key platforms, including Rafale fighter jets, with significant contracts signed with Indonesia and Serbia, as well as Black Sword Barracuda submarines, four of which were ordered by the Netherlands (Picture source: Naval Group)
In 2023, orders amounted to €8.2 billion, a modest figure compared to the €27 billion recorded in 2022. Although this decline was disappointing, the Ministry of the Armed Forces emphasized that annual fluctuations are largely influenced by the signing of major contracts. Notably, the global context remained favorable, with military expenditures reaching a record $2.443 trillion, according to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
In 2024, the French defense industry rebounded strongly, with exports exceeding €18 billion. During a speech delivered at the Invalides courtyard on January 7, Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu described 2024 as the "second-best year in our history," surpassing the €14 billion achieved in 2016. These results were driven by key platforms, including Rafale fighter jets, with significant contracts signed with Indonesia and Serbia, as well as Black Sword Barracuda submarines, four of which were ordered by the Netherlands.
Despite these achievements, the minister emphasized the need to sustain efforts, pointing to promising prospects for 2025. Among them, he confirmed the sale of 14 Caracal helicopters to Iraq, though this figure raises questions. In September, Baghdad had announced a contract for 12 H225M Caracals, suggesting a potential additional order, though no further details have been provided.
Looking ahead, Lecornu outlined priorities that include surface ships, particularly defense and intervention frigates, submarines, radars, artillery systems, helicopters, and Rafale jets. He also highlighted the strategic importance of the next-generation SAMP/T medium-range ground-based air defense system, designed to counter increasing ballistic threats, particularly from Iran and Russia.
The minister reiterated that arms exports are critical for the BITD. Beyond supporting the trade balance and generating employment across France, they ensure national sovereignty by sustaining an industrial model developed in the 1960s.
The results achieved in 2024 reflect the resilience and adaptability of the French defense industry. However, maintaining this momentum requires continued vigilance, particularly in a global context of evolving military expenditures and strategic challenges. With major opportunities already emerging, 2025 has the potential to further consolidate France’s position as a global leader in arms exports.