ABSTRACT
French nuclear forces will undergo significant modernization in response to technological opportunities and the political need to reassure the French public that the independence of France will continue to be protected in the years ahead. The French nuclear forces are small and are capable of only limited target coverage against Soviet territory and against Warsaw Pact forces that might invade Western territory. French nuclear forces will be significantly enhanced quantitatively by the modernization program. A number of factors have shaped the French effort to modernize the country's nuclear forces. Technologically, an expansion in the striking power of the strategic forces has been facilitated by the ability to fit French submarines with multiple-warheaded missiles. The French nuclear effort has been a critical element in crystallizing broad public support for the overall defense posture. The growth of Soviet military power presents the most significant external challenge to French modernization efforts.
