Alternatives to the aircraft carrier: an analysis of the French strategic debate
Abstract
Since the end of the Second World War, the status of capital ship of the aircraft carrier has been a consensus. However, the criticisms against him seem to be on the increase today. These are based on geostrategic, techno-capability and / or economic considerations. Although such accusations in no way slow down the renewed global interest in the acquisition of naval air platforms, capability introspection must be engaged: does the aircraft carrier still embody the flagship of a fleet? Are alternative and more appropriate solutions possible? Concerned by this debate because of its national flagship – the Charles de Gaulle – and at the time of choosing its successor, France must lead this reflection. Is the model of the large aircraft carrier still of interest for the French Navy or can it count on alternative solutions? If so, are we in the process of witnessing the establishment of a new naval capability system in the coming decades, sanctioning the emergence of a new capital ship?
About the Author
Pierre Vallée holds a degree in History / Political Science (ICR - Rennes) and a Master II in Relations international, International Security and Defense course (Jean Moulin University - Lyon III). In the framework of of his final thesis (2019), he was interested in the evolutions and the future of naval power French. Since the end of his Masters, he has been a researcher at the Institute of Strategy and Defense of Lyon.
Technology-capability analysis
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