Key facts
- German military personnel will participate in France's nuclear drill Poker this fall.
- The participation is expected to be agreed upon by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron.
- This marks a significant step toward closer Franco-German cooperation on nuclear deterrence.
- The decision comes as European governments reassess their reliance on the U.S. for security.
- The drill simulates air-launched nuclear strikes.
German military personnel are set to participate in France’s flagship nuclear drill Poker for the first time this fall, a move that signifies a significant step toward closer Franco-German cooperation on nuclear deterrence. The agreement is expected to be finalized during a meeting between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron at Germany’s Nörvenich Air Base.
This development occurs as European governments increasingly question their long-term reliance on the United States for security. The decision to join the French nuclear exercise, which simulates air-launched nuclear strikes, comes amid growing pressure from China and a recognition that the transatlantic partnership may no longer be as dependable as in the past.
French President Macron had previously indicated in a March speech that several European countries, including Germany, had agreed to enhance cooperation on nuclear deterrence. Options discussed ranged from participation in drills like Poker to the temporary deployment of nuclear-capable French Rafale fighter jets. An Elysée Palace official hinted that substantial progress on forward deterrence would be made following the Île-Longue speech, with initial signs appearing this week.