France's New Era of Naval Power: The Revolutionary PANG Aircraft Carrier

France is poised to make a significant leap in its naval capabilities with the introduction of the new Porte Avions Nouvelle Génération (PANG), which translates to Next Generation Aircraft Carrier. This monumental ship aims to replace the aging Charles de Gaulle and is set to become the largest aircraft carrier ever constructed in Europe, signifying a substantial advancement in naval projection for the French military. The latest insights from specialized media outlet Next Gen Defense reveal that the PANG embodies a blend of ambitious technology, robust industrial capacity, and a strategic vision for modern warfare. President Emmanuel Macron made the official announcement concerning the carrier's construction during a recent address to French troops stationed near the Strait of Hormuz in Abu Dhabi, confirming that work has already commenced on this ambitious project. The estimated total cost of the PANG program is approximately €10.25 billion, with the French budget for 2025 allocating necessary funding to ensure the project's execution phase remains secure. The construction of the PANG will take place at the renowned shipyards Chantiers de l'Atlantique and Naval Group in Saint Nazaire, both crucial players in the French shipbuilding industry. If timelines are adhered to, the PANG is expected to enter service by 2038. Its dimensions are impressive on an international scale, measuring 310 meters long and 85 meters wide across its flight deck, with a waterline width of 39 meters. Upon reaching full load, the vessel will displace approximately 78,000 tons, underscoring its formidable presence at sea. A significant upgrade in propulsion technology accompanies the PANG, which will feature two next-generation K22 reactors, allowing the aircraft carrier to cruise at speeds of up to 27 knots. This represents a significant advancement over the existing K15 reactors found in the Charles de Gaulle, enabling extended operations without the need for refueling—an essential capability for long-range military missions. Onboard, the PANG will be designed to operate a minimum of 40 aircraft, including 36 combat fighters, two or three early warning aircraft, several helicopters, and around ten light drones. Notably, the carrier will utilize two or three Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) for its aircraft launches, offering enhanced versatility over traditional steam catapults. In a move that emphasizes modern warfare strategies, the design will also incorporate directed energy weapons, an emerging technology that promises significant defensive advantages. What sets the PANG apart is not just its scale and capabilities, but its evolutionary design philosophy. This aircraft carrier is intended to function as an adaptable platform, ready to integrate new technologies throughout its lifespan. Central to this vision is a combat system that relies heavily on data analytics, aiming to streamline decision-making and improve coordination among its various sensors, weapons systems, and aircraft. Through the development of the PANG, France aims not only to maintain its global military projection capabilities but also to assert itself as a leader in 21st-century naval warfare. This commitment to a ship that combines power, flexibility, and the capacity for technological evolution underscores a strategic endeavor that could redefine France's role on the international naval stage for decades to come. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2