French and British fighters in joint nuclear exercises

The exercise, codenamed "Rummy", took place on Tuesday evening. The French Rafale took off from the Saint-Dizier base in the northeast of the country and was then escorted by British RAF Typhoon fighters.

According to the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, the scenario assumed a simulation of a nuclear strike. This was the first time British Typhoons participated in French nuclear exercises.

Having independent nuclear forces does not rule out coordination, said French Minister of the Armed Forces Catherine Vautrin. She emphasized that nuclear cooperation with Great Britain is being deepened.

Paris and London Agreement

France and Great Britain agreed in July 2025 to strengthen cooperation regarding their nuclear arsenals. The decision was related to the growing threats to Europe and uncertainty regarding the United States' policy in the context of the security of the Old Continent.

British Defense Minister Wes Streeting emphasized that joint actions are intended to send a clear signal to potential opponents.

In an increasingly dangerous world, our adversaries should have no doubt: Britain and France stand together in their commitment to Europe's security and maintaining the deterrence that has helped preserve peace for generations, he said.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced in March the expansion of France's nuclear potential. He also presented the initiative of joint exercises with European partners and the possibility of short-term deployment of French assets capable of carrying nuclear weapons on their territories.