France, Poland to practice nuclear deterrence of russia in joint exercises - media
Military and political cooperation between France and Poland is reaching a new level of strategic importance. The countries are preparing joint aviation exercises that will involve French Rafale fighter jets capable of carrying ASMP missiles with nuclear warheads. This step is part of Paris’s updated strategy to extend its “nuclear umbrella” to key allies in Eastern Europe that directly border the aggressor. It was reported by Wirtualna Polska.
According to the scenario for the upcoming maneuvers in the Baltic Sea region, the Polish Air Force will take on reconnaissance and escort duties, while the French Air Force will practice precision strike missions. Although France’s nuclear arsenal remains under Paris’s direct control, the mere presence of such aircraft at Polish airfields during rotations is intended to send a powerful signal to the kremlin.
At the same time, the Polish side will train to use conventional long-range missiles, coordinating its actions with its allies.
"If we don’t take care of our own security, no one else will," said Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
For Warsaw, this is not only a matter of defense but also a way to deepen technological cooperation, particularly in the field of nuclear energy. Experts note that this format of exercises fundamentally changes the rules of the game in the region: the West is now openly demonstrating its readiness to respond symmetrically to any attempts by russia to employ nuclear blackmail tactics on NATO’s borders.
The exercises will begin in the near future, which underscores the high priority of this project for both capitals.
As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, Poland has officially joined the group of European countries that will participate in the new phase of French nuclear deterrence, which involves joint exercises and enhanced defense cooperation. This step is part of the "forward deterrence" strategy, which also includes Germany, Sweden, and the Benelux countries.