France and Germany Enhance Nuclear Cooperation Amid Strategic Shifts
France and Germany have taken significant steps towards nuclear cooperation, marking a shift from mere discussions to actionable measures. French nuclear-capable bombers recently visited a German airfield, and joint exercises are scheduled. This development follows the formation of a 'nuclear steering group' in March, aimed at integrating the two countries' nuclear strategies. The initiative, part of France's 'forward deterrence' strategy, extends its nuclear umbrella to other European nations. Germany, along with eight other countries, has joined this initiative. The cooperation includes Germany's participation in upcoming French nuclear exercises with its conventional forces. This move comes after the collapse of the joint Future Combat Air System project, which had strained relations between French and German defense contractors. 
