Story perspectives

France, Germany Hold First Nuclear Air Drill, Boost Missile Deterrence

7/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

France and Germany conducted a first joint air force drill, using nuclear-capable Rafale jets and German Eurofighters to rehearse mid-air refueling over German airspace.
They announced missile-defence and long-range strike systems for nuclear deterrence, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz saying the effort will complement NATO’s nuclear umbrella.
President Emmanuel Macron said Germany will act as a vanguard in deterrence, while France retains control of its arsenal and will not share warheads.

History

Historical Context

President François Mitterrand and Chancellor Helmut Kohl agreed in 1987 to form a joint force; the Franco-German Brigade became operational on 2 October 1989 and stationed units in both nations. A 2014 decision withdrew roughly 1,000 soldiers, leaving about 4,000 troops. That evolution frames today’s first joint air-force drill led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz and President Emmanuel Macron.

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Story summary

France and Germany conducted a first joint air force drill, using nuclear-capable Rafale jets and German Eurofighters to rehearse mid-air refueling over German airspace.
They announced missile-defence and long-range strike systems for nuclear deterrence, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz saying the effort will complement NATO’s nuclear umbrella.
President Emmanuel Macron said Germany will act as a vanguard in deterrence, while France retains control of its arsenal and will not share warheads.

1 / 2