France and the UK Coordinate Nuclear Deterrence Amid Evolving Security Threats
France and the UK are set to enhance their nuclear deterrence coordination in response to evolving European security threats.
Key Points
- • France and UK announce coordination of nuclear deterrent strategies.
- • A new 'nuclear supervision group' will be established for military cooperation.
- • The agreement is the first major change since the 1995 'Chequers Declaration'.
- • Growing concerns about Western leadership in nuclear technology.
On July 9, 2025, during a significant state visit to the UK, French President Emmanuel Macron announced a pivotal step in European nuclear policy alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. They revealed plans to formalize a declaration aimed at coordinating their nations' nuclear deterrent capabilities, reflecting a strategic response to escalating security concerns in Europe, particularly in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
This agreement, set to be officially signed on July 10, marks a historical update to the nuclear cooperation framework established in the 1995 'Chequers Declaration'. The new declaration emphasizes that while France and the UK will retain independent control over their nuclear arsenals, they will jointly coordinate responses to threats against their vital interests. A newly proposed 'nuclear supervision group' will oversee the deepening of military cooperation between the two nations, aiming to enhance their deterrent posture in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
This coordination comes at a crucial time, with fears rising regarding the reliability of US commitments under previous administrations, and a broader concern about the West's competitive edge in nuclear technology, especially against claims from countries like China and Russia. Heloïse Fayet, a researcher at the French Institute of International Relations, underscored the importance of this shift as a movement towards unprecedented military and political alignment, aligning closely with both countries' existing nuclear doctrines.
In another related report, Cécile Maisonneuve from the same institute pointed to the urgent need for the West to address the rising challenges in nuclear technology. She raised doubts about whether Western nations could effectively revitalize their nuclear capabilities to keep pace with emerging powers, noting that bold political statements about the 'return' of nuclear power have yet to translate into substantial actions.
As Europe grapples with these pressing issues, the collaboration established between France and the UK not only enhances regional security but also underscores the necessity of maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent amid shifting global power dynamics. The announcement sets the stage for accelerated military projects, including joint development efforts in cruise missile technology, and advances the creation of a coalition designed to bolster defenses for Ukraine, including plans to deploy up to 40,000 troops as conditions permit.
The evolving cooperation between these nuclear powers represents a significant recalibration of European defense strategy, aiming to safeguard peace and stability across the continent amidst growing threats.