France considers extending service of Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier

France is considering extending the service life of its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, to prevent operational gaps in its naval capabilities. The French Navy is evaluating whether maintaining the flagship longer than its planned 2038 retirement would provide strategic advantages, such as ensuring constant readiness from its base in Toulon.

Currently, France loses its carrier capacity whenever the Charles de Gaulle undergoes maintenance. Admiral Christophe Cluzel, Chief of Staff of the French Navy, has informed legislators that the military is weighing the benefits of a two-carrier fleet to preserve specialized maritime expertise and maintain continuous presence.

Concerns regarding the timeline for the next-generation carrier, the PANG (named ‘France Libre’), are also influencing this decision. The construction process for the new vessel is complex, with reactor component production slated for late 2025 and hull construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique expected to begin around 2031. Technical audits will determine if the aging Charles de Gaulle can remain safely in service.