Earlier this week in Toulouse, France's space and aviation hub, President Emmanuel Macron delivered a stark warning: "The war of today is already being fought in space, and the war of tomorrow will begin in space." At the unveiling of France's new space military command center, Macron announced a €4.2 billion increase in funding for military space activities through 2030.
This boost signals Europe's intensifying focus on space security. Macron laid out three core priorities:
- Developing reusable launchers with low-cost propulsion and high-thrust engines
- Building advanced warning systems in collaboration with Germany
- Expanding space surveillance using the Aurore radar network
In a nod to private US players like SpaceX and Blue Origin, Macron insisted that reliance on "a major third-party power or any space magnate" is unacceptable. He argued that space autonomy is now crucial for effective operations on land, at sea, and in the air.
As global competition in orbit heats up, France aims to empower its "European champions" to compete on the world stage, balancing strategic independence with respect for international law. This new chapter in defense tech underscores how the final frontier is reshaping security strategies worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
