Ukraine Drafts Civilians for War: Could France Follow Suit?
If a general mobilization occurs in Ukraine, might France consider a similar approach if its professional army is inadequate? Would you personally be willing to join the front lines?
The War in Ukraine: A Nationwide Mobilization
Since February 24, 2022, Ukraine has been in a state of constant warfare. Facing Russian invasion, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s nation has had to swiftly organize a defense, supported by American and European resources.
The conflict has resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians and displaced over six million Ukrainians, reducing the country’s population by a quarter. The exact number of military casualties remains unknown.
What if France Were at War?
The question arises: in the event of a major conflict, could France resort to a forced mobilization of its population? Military historian Annie Crépin suggests that the French state could indeed repeal the 1997 law that suspended mandatory national service.
With the depletion of volunteers and reservists, the state might need to draw from the general populace. Criteria such as age, gender, and other factors would determine eligibility for mobilization. Theoretically, all French citizens aged 18 to 35 could be drafted.
The French Military Force
Before considering such mobilization, it’s important to note that France maintains a regular army. According to a 2022 parliamentary report on the defense budget, the operational forces ready for immediate deployment include 77,000 army personnel, 34,000 naval staff, and 40,000 air and space force members, supported by about 5,000 reservists.
In terms of equipment, France boasts 222 Leclerc tanks, 6,200 wheeled armored vehicles, roughly 3,800 other combat vehicles, 211 fighter jets, 45 attack aircraft, about 50 surveillance aircraft, nine submarines, and an aircraft carrier.
The French Military Reserve
Before tapping into the civilian population, France has a military reserve divided into two components: a civic defense and security reserve, and an operational reserve. Altogether, nearly 140,000 individuals could be mobilized.
However, this number pales in comparison to the 4.5 million French citizens mobilized during World War II. Nonetheless, it is crucial to remember that France is a member of NATO, which could intervene if any of its members are attacked.