In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the French government has issued a warning to local defense firms, stating that measures such as requisitioning and order prioritization may be implemented to expedite the production of missiles and artillery shells. Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu expressed his concern over the delay in delivery of MBDA's Aster air-defense missile and stressed that if manufacturing does not speed up, defense orders may be prioritized over civilian ones in the coming weeks.

During a press conference on March 26, Minister Lecornu stated, "For the first time, I'm not ruling out using what the law allows the minister and the general directorate for armament to do, which is, if things wouldn't be going according to plan in terms of production rates and lead times, to requisition or invoke the right of prioritization if necessary."

France is urging its defense industry to adopt a "war economy" footing, highlighting the urgency in increasing production to support Ukraine and secure important export contracts. The French government asserts that the delivery times of defense equipment have been a detriment, causing them to miss out on several contracts, particularly in Eastern Europe, where competitors offered better delivery times.

Minister Lecornu emphasized the importance of shortening delivery times for various defense equipment, including the Aster missile and 155mm shells for the Caesar howitzer. He suggested that MBDA subcontractors prioritize military orders over civilian ones to enhance the output of Aster missiles.

To achieve this, the French government has the option to requisition, prioritize public-interest orders, and request manufacturers to maintain minimum levels of critical supplies. However, Minister Lecornu clarified that requisitioning is not the preferred tool at the moment, though the possibility of stocks requirements is being considered.

The French defense firms are now under pressure to increase production rapidly, not only to aid Ukraine but also to secure vital export contracts that are crucial for France's defense-industrial model. Minister Lecornu expressed confidence in KNDS Nexter and explosives manufacturer Eurenco, stating that they are making significant efforts to boost the production of 155mm artillery shells.

Nexter has invested in machinery and plans to expand further, aiming to produce 40,000 155mm shells per year, with a target of 100,000 shells by 2024. The minister highlighted that the main bottleneck in production lies with black powder and mentioned that France is exploring alternative sources, including recycling older munitions.

Furthermore, France intends to double the production of Safran's AASM Hammer guided bombs to 1,200 by 2025, as well as increase the order for long-range Aster missiles to 400, valued at nearly €2 billion ($2.2 billion). Talks will be initiated with allies to adapt the bombs to the US-made F-16 aircraft, which will be delivered to Ukraine.

In addition to the urgent need for increased production, Minister Lecornu affirmed that France will be preparing a new military-aid package for Ukraine, with the outgoing equipment from their armies being directed to Ukraine.

As of December 31, 2023, French defense firms had approximately €34 billion worth of outstanding orders, highlighting the significance of meeting production demands to maintain France's defense industry's sustainability.

The French government's announcement serves as a wakeup call for the defense firms to meet the growing demand promptly, ensuring the country's national security and strengthening its defense capabilities.