French aerospace groups warned French and European defense sectors face supply chain vulnerabilities, saying the growing “weaponisation” of global supply chains could squeeze critical inputs for jets and engines, industry leaders told reporters.
France’s aerospace industry raised concerns about the “weaponisation” of global supply chains on January 8, saying geopolitical pressures could put critical components at risk. The warning comes as tensions between major powers continue to strain defense technology networks.
Olivier Andries, president of the French aerospace association GIFAS and chief executive officer of Safran, said an estimated 90 percent of the industry’s rare earth element supply comes from China. Those materials are essential for jet engines and other aerospace components. He said this concentrated dependency gives foreign producers potential leverage over Western aerospace output.
Rare earths and magnets made from them play roles in modern aircraft beyond engines, including in sensors and electrical systems, making secure access a strategic concern for defense modernization.
Andries stressed that despite a recent trade truce between the United States and China, risks remain because of how quickly geopolitical agendas can reshape markets for key inputs. He said industry leaders are urging broader recognition of these supply chain pressures in strategic planning.
At the same briefing in Paris, Andries also criticised the lack of a finalized 2026 French state budget, calling ongoing delays a drag on planning for aerospace and defense projects. He said lawmakers appeared to have “lost direction” on budget priorities.
Despite those concerns, Andries noted that France’s defense commitments remain largely on track and that European countries continue to boost defense spending in the context of U.S. pressure and the war in Ukraine. He highlighted political backing for multinational programs like the next-generation European fighter jet, but said cooperation among industrial partners will be essential to advancing such efforts.
The supply chain warning is part of a broader push by aerospace firms to increase resilience, including diversifying production footprints and sourcing. French firms such as Safran have earlier announced expansions of manufacturing capacity abroad to reduce dependence on single sources for key parts.
