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‘France Libre’ to be France’s New Aircraft Carrier from 2038

Published March 18, 2026, 17:10
‘France Libre’ to be France’s New Aircraft Carrier from 2038

French President Emmanuel Macron announced today that the new generation aircraft carrier, which will replace the Charles de Gaulle in 2038, will be named ‘France Libre’ (Free France), in honor of the ‘French spirit’ of ‘resistance’ embodied by the French general. Macron made the announcement at the construction site of the nuclear reactors for the future flagship of the French Navy in Indre, near Nantes. He stressed that the choice of name is linked to the historical legacy of General de Gaulle and the idea of French resistance. According to Macron, the ‘French spirit’ is a spirit of resistance and a will for freedom that cannot be stopped. The choice of the name ‘France Libre’ symbolizes this unwavering will for independence and autonomy. The new aircraft carrier is expected to be an important element of the French naval force and contribute to the defense of France’s national interests.