Macron to French Arms Makers: Speed Up or We'll Buy Elsewhere

President Emmanuel Macron has issued a direct warning to France's defense industry. He says production delays are unacceptable and companies must accelerate their output. Speaking from a military base, Macron expressed clear frustration. He stated that if domestic companies cannot deliver quickly, France will look to other European suppliers. "To our defense companies, I say: you need to speed up your production rates," Macron said. He added a stark threat: "We will seek European solutions if they are faster or more effective." This push for greater industrial output is driven by the ongoing war in Ukraine. European nations are urgently replenishing their own stockpiles while also supplying Kyiv. The president's message highlights a strategic shift. France is prioritizing rapid rearmament and readiness, putting pressure on its historic defense contractors to adapt.