France is calling for a new European Union initiative to increase ammunition production and accelerate the deployment of the IRIS² satellite constellation, a key project for Europe’s strategic autonomy. French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu outlined the proposals during a joint press conference with Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen ahead of an EU defense ministers’ meeting in Warsaw.
Lecornu emphasized the need to expand the EU’s existing Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) program, which was designed to boost the supply of munitions, including advanced ordnance like missiles. He argued that an updated initiative is necessary to strengthen the European defense industry and ensure a steady supply of critical military resources.
In addition to ammunition production, France is advocating for an accelerated timeline and increased funding for the IRIS² satellite program. Initially scheduled for full operational capacity by 2027, the project now faces delays that could push completion into the early 2030s. Lecornu stressed the importance of streamlined governance and additional investment to prevent further setbacks.
The proposals will be discussed during the EU defense ministers’ meeting on April 2-3, where officials will also address broader defense industry development and continued military support for Ukraine.