France is seeking to join a long-range missile development program being pursued by the United Kingdom and Germany, according to reports from the Financial Times. The move comes as European nations reassess their defense capabilities and military cooperation frameworks.

The missile program represents part of broader European efforts to strengthen military capabilities and reduce dependence on external defense systems. Details about the specific missile technology or timeline for the joint program were not immediately available.

The development occurs against a backdrop of evolving defense policies across Europe. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who assumed office last year, has advocated for increased defense spending with a "whatever it takes" approach to military preparedness, according to The Hill.

Separately, French political leader Marine Le Pen has called for France to withdraw from NATO's command structure, though this position does not reflect current French government policy. Le Pen's statement adds to ongoing debates about European nations' roles within existing military alliances.

The potential French participation in the UK-German missile program would mark another instance of post-Brexit military cooperation between Britain and EU member states. Such defense partnerships have continued despite political tensions over other bilateral issues.

European defense cooperation has gained renewed attention as nations evaluate their security postures and military procurement strategies. The missile program discussions reflect broader trends toward increased defense collaboration among European allies.