The above image is for illustrative purposes only.
General Atomics has secured a $41.6 million contract to assist in preparing the French Navy for future operations, specifically focusing on the development of two advanced systems for the nation’s upcoming aircraft carrier. The systems in question are the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and the Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), both of which have been integral to the U.S. Navy’s Ford-class carriers. France intends to integrate these technologies into its next-generation aircraft carrier, the PANG (Porte-Avions de Nouvelle Génération).
EMALS represents a significant advancement over traditional steam catapults. Using electromagnetic energy, it offers smoother and more precise launches, accommodating both heavier jets and smaller drones. This system eliminates the energy inefficiencies and mechanical limitations of steam catapults, offering enhanced reliability, reduced maintenance, and greater operational flexibility, especially in launching unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The AAG system is designed to safely arrest aircraft with less strain on their airframes. Unlike older hydraulic systems, AAG uses advanced energy-absorbing technology to reduce wear and tear, improving safety and reducing maintenance. This capability is critical for high-tempo carrier operations, where the preservation of aircraft integrity is paramount.
Notably, the contract is funded through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, meaning the French government is financing the project, not American taxpayers. The allocated $41.6 million is secure, with no expiration by the end of the fiscal year. The collaboration underscores France’s commitment to modernizing its naval forces while reinforcing its partnership with the U.S. in defense technology.
The work will be primarily conducted at General Atomics’ San Diego facilities, with some operations in Lakehurst, New Jersey, and Tupelo, Mississippi. The project is slated for completion by January 2026, which includes a critical Preliminary Design Review to ensure both systems meet French operational and international safety standards.
This development is of strategic importance as France is the only European nation operating a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The PANG, successor to the Charles de Gaulle, will position France on par with the U.S. Navy’s Ford-class carriers, enhancing its ability to deploy a wide range of aircraft, including next-gen unmanned systems. This increased capability will strengthen France’s global power projection and bolster NATO’s defense posture.
General Atomics was directly awarded the contract due to its proven track record with EMALS and AAG, systems already deployed on the USS Gerald R. Ford. However, integrating these systems into the PANG’s unique nuclear-powered, large-scale configuration will present specific challenges, particularly regarding operational doctrines and infrastructure.
Beyond the technical aspects, this deal also reflects the growing military and industrial ties between the U.S. and France, reinforcing transatlantic cooperation amid rising global tensions. With peer competitors such as China and Russia advancing their own carrier programs, maintaining technological superiority is essential for NATO’s maritime dominance.
The PANG is expected to enter service in the late 2030s, replacing the aging Charles de Gaulle, which has faced operational readiness issues. The PANG’s ambitious design includes a CATOBAR system capable of launching heavier, advanced aircraft, including the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and Dassault Rafale M fighters. However, this sophisticated system introduces new risks, particularly regarding maintenance and reliability, given the challenges that plagued the Charles de Gaulle’s launch mechanisms.
Powered by a nuclear reactor, the PANG will extend operational range and reduce the need for refueling. Yet, the increased scale and complexity of the vessel will demand significant financial and human resources. With France’s ongoing budgetary constraints, questions arise about its ability to sustain the PANG without diverting funds from other defense priorities.
The PANG will serve as a central element in France’s strategic positioning, particularly in regions like the Indo-Pacific and Africa, where France has key interests. However, as global power dynamics shift and new threats emerge, particularly from hypersonic weapons and counter-carrier strategies, the PANG’s ability to maintain its operational edge remains uncertain.
