In 2024, France reached an important milestone in the field of arms exports, reaching an impressive amount of 18 billion euros. More than double that of 2023!
Rafale and Barracuda: symbols of French excellence
With 18 billion euros in exports in 2024, France achieved the second best performance in its history, according to Sébastien Lecornu, Minister of the Armed Forces. This figure is a clear increase compared to the 8.2 billion recorded in 2023, a jump which reflects a renewed interest in French technologies in an international context marked by a general increase in military budgets.
Geopolitical tensions, particularly in Europe and Asia, have encouraged several states to turn to reliable and modern weapons. However, this performance remains below the record of 27 billion euros reached in 2022, driven by the spectacular contract for 80 Rafales sold to the United Arab Emirates. In 2024, nearly 10 billion euros in sales will be made thanks to flagship equipment such as the Rafale and the Barracuda submarines, strengthening France’s place among the world’s main exporters.
The success of the Rafale on the international market continues to play a determining role. In 2024, Serbia has signed for 12 aircraft and Indonesia has confirmed an order for 42 aircraft, including 18 finalized this year. Considered a versatile and efficient aircraft, the Rafale has established itself as an essential reference.
The French naval industry, represented by Naval Group, also had a successful year with the sale of four Barracuda submarines to the Netherlands. Although the exact amount has not been revealed, this contract, estimated at 5.6 billion euros, illustrates the competitiveness of French maritime solutions in a sector where competition remains fierce.
Arms exports: a strategic issue for France
Beyond the figures, Sébastien Lecornu insists on the strategic importance of arms sales for French sovereignty. According to him, these exports help support the defense industrial and technological base (BITD), a essential pillar to maintain the strategic independence of the country.
The economic benefits are also major. Each signed contract not only fuels the trade balance, but also supports thousands of jobs across France.
Sébastien Lecornu displays cautious optimism for 2025. Among the contracts already announced, the sale of 14 Caracal helicopters to Iraq opens a year which could prove promising. The minister is also banking on technological advances, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence, to strengthen the competitiveness of French arms.
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