The French government has unveiled a national plan aimed at hiring 100,000 new employees in the defense industry by 2030. Minister of Labor Jean-Pierre Farandou announced the initiative on Tuesday, September 15, highlighting the defense sector as a key area for job creation and economic stability. This plan is part of broader efforts to support employment in strategic industries, which are seen as vital to national security and technological advancement. To implement the plan, France Travail, the public employment service, will be strengthened with 30 specialized advisors and a special defense force led by a retired general. This team will focus on recruiting workers for defense-related jobs, addressing both the need for skilled labor and the challenges posed by retirements and industry growth. The plan also includes a significant training component, with 15,000 operational employment preparations (POEI) specifically tailored to meet the needs of the defense industry. These programs aim to equip workers with the skills required for new or evolving roles in the sector. Farandou emphasized the importance of coordination at the local level, instructing prefects—regional government officials—to take an active role in implementing the plan. They will be responsible for creating local action plans and ensuring that the goals of the initiative are met on time. The minister described defense industry jobs as "attractive" and "having meaning," noting that they are well-paid, accessible to all, and available throughout France. He encouraged young people and women to consider careers in this sector, which offers opportunities in various regions of the country. This initiative builds on earlier efforts to prioritize the defense industry in employment policy. Earlier in August, Farandou highlighted the need to adapt skills to meet the demands of sectors such as nuclear energy, the ecological transition, and defense. His message underscores the government’s focus on aligning workforce development with national priorities, ensuring that the defense industry remains a strong and competitive sector in France’s economy.