France Initiates Production of K22 Nuclear Reactor Components for Future Aircraft Carrier PA-NG

Key Production Milestone Achieved

France has officially begun the manufacturing of essential components for the K22 nuclear reactors destined for its future Porte-Avions de Nouvelle Génération (PA-NG) aircraft carrier. The initial welding of metal shells for the reactor units commenced on September 25 at Naval Group's plant in Cherbourg. This marks a crucial phase in the development of the nation's next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, a project aimed at reinforcing France's strategic autonomy and naval capabilities.

The K22 reactors, designed by TechnicAtome under the supervision of the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) and the Commissariat à l'énergie atomique (CEA), are pressurized water reactors with a thermal output of approximately 220 to 225 megawatts (MW) each. This represents a 50% increase in power compared to the K15 reactors currently used in the 'Charles de Gaulle' aircraft carrier. Each reactor vessel will stand 14 meters high, measure 13 meters in diameter, and weigh around 1,300 tons, making them among the largest components of their type in French nuclear offshore power history.

The PA-NG: A New Era for French Naval Power

The PA-NG is envisioned as a significantly larger and more capable vessel than its predecessor, the 'Charles de Gaulle'. It will have a displacement of approximately 75,000 to 78,000 tonnes and an overall length of 300 to 310 meters. Powered by the two K22 nuclear reactors, the carrier will achieve a maximum speed of up to 27 knots and boast virtually unlimited range.

Key features of the future aircraft carrier include:

• An air wing capable of operating 30 to 32 next-generation fighters (NGF), Rafale M jets, E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes, and various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
• Three Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) from General Atomics, replacing the steam catapults of the 'Charles de Gaulle'.
• Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) for aircraft recovery.
• A crew complement of approximately 2,000 personnel.

Project Timeline and Strategic Importance

The program for the PA-NG was officially announced by President Emmanuel Macron in December 2020. While the welding of reactor components has commenced, the official project approval is anticipated by the end of 2025. Hull construction is scheduled to begin around 2031-2032 at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, with sea trials projected for 2036. The PA-NG is expected to enter service with the French Navy in 2038, coinciding with the planned decommissioning of the 'Charles de Gaulle'.

The development of the PA-NG is a cornerstone of France's long-term defense strategy, ensuring the nation maintains its military nuclear competence and its status as a significant maritime power. The project, with an estimated cost exceeding €10 billion, also plays a vital role in France's nuclear deterrence capabilities.