France and the UK conducted their first joint nuclear exercise, 'Rummy,' showcasing coordinated nuclear deterrence efforts in a tense European security landscape.
Joint nuclear exercise conducted
France and the United Kingdom carried out their first joint nuclear exercise, named Rummy, involving French Rafale fighter jets and British Royal Air Force (RAF) Typhoon jets. The exercise took place from the Saint-Dizier Air Base in Haute-Marne and included simulated nuclear strike scenarios over the Mediterranean Sea.Exercise aims to improve coordination
The operation aimed to enhance coordination and interoperability between British and French military personnel. It highlighted the growing cooperation between the two European nuclear powers, even though no actual nuclear weapons were involved in the exercise.Officials emphasize shared security goals
According to the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, the exercise marks a new phase in defense cooperation between the two nations. Wes Streeting, the British Secretary of State for Defense, stated that the exercise reflects a shared responsibility toward European Atlantic security and serves as a warning to potential adversaries.France and UK stress independent deterrence
Catherine Vautrin, the French Minister of the Armed Forces, noted that having independent nuclear capabilities does not preclude collaboration. She said that through coordination, nuclear forces can better support the security of the Alliance and promote peace in the Euro-Atlantic region.Exercise in a tense security context
The exercise occurs amid a challenging security environment in Europe, influenced by the Russian threat and concerns about the reliability of the American nuclear umbrella. The Northwood Declaration, signed in July 2025, provides the foundation for this cooperation, ensuring strategic coordination while preserving each nation's independence.Differences in nuclear capabilities
France's nuclear deterrence includes both submarines and Rafale aircraft equipped with the ASMPA-R nuclear missile. The United Kingdom, on the other hand, relies solely on its submarines armed with Trident missiles. This exercise marks the first time British Typhoon jets have participated in a French air-based nuclear drill.Exercise details and command structure
The exercise took place on October 20 and 21, with French Rafale jets simulating a nuclear strike escorted by British Typhoon jets. The goal was to train crews to coordinate and communicate effectively. The final decision to use nuclear weapons remains solely in the hands of the President of the French Republic.European initiative for nuclear deterrence
France has launched an "advanced nuclear deterrence" initiative, introduced by President Emmanuel Macron in March 2026. This initiative seeks to strengthen the European aspect of French nuclear strategy, with several European countries, including Poland, the Netherlands, and Sweden, showing interest in participating.
