Amid the historic backdrop of France’s Bastille Day, this year’s celebrations are poised to carry a message of unity and strength across Europe. Under the theme “strategic awakening of Europe,” the event on July 14 will showcase a grand aerial display that underscores the continent’s defense partnerships.
Increased Aerial Display
The air show will feature an impressive lineup of 98 fixed-wing aircraft, a notable increase from the planned 65 in 2025. France’s key European allies will play a central role in this display. The parade will commence with the Patrouille de France’s nine Alphajet trainers, accompanied by two Ukrainian Mirage 2000B fighter jets.
Following closely will be a formation led by two French Rafale jets, one from France’s strategic nuclear forces, alongside jets from Germany, Greece, the UK, and Sweden. While specifics about the aircraft types remain undisclosed, previous plans had mentioned a German Eurofighter, Swedish Gripen, UK F-35, and Greek F-4.
Symbolic Partnerships
This year’s parade highlights the symbolic importance of France’s partnerships with these European countries, all of which have engaged in some form of France’s forward nuclear deterrence strategy. This initiative, introduced by President Emmanuel Macron, aims to extend France’s nuclear protection over Europe, signaling a strategic shift amid perceived U.S. disengagement.
Despite the UK’s separate nuclear policy, its collaboration with France has grown under the Northwood Declaration framework established in 2025. This collaboration underpins an independent yet coordinated nuclear deterrent.
Notable Absences and Adjustments
Conspicuously absent from the flyover is the United States, which previously participated with the Thunderbirds’ F-16s during Trump’s presidency. This year’s focus remains distinctly European, with additional aircraft such as two German C-130 Hercules and an A-400M Atlas from both the UK and Germany scheduled to participate.
Earlier drafts of the event indicated involvement from Denmark, Poland, and Spain with their respective F-35, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and F-18 Hornet aircraft. These, however, were later removed without explanation.
European Continuity
While European involvement in Bastille Day is traditional, this year’s configuration presents a shift. Unlike last year’s “air defense” formation led by French Mirage jets, the current “Entrée En Premier: Intervention” setup suggests a more proactive stance, highlighting nuclear-capable operations.
