French defense companies could be the future winners of the war raging in the Middle East, states a senior official from the Ministry of Defense. While the situation is delicate, there is an opportunity in this conflict. Even though the military industry leaders politely decline requests for comments, behind the scenes, major corporations are receiving calls from Gulf monarchies seeking to accelerate planned orders. Since the death of the former Supreme Leader, the regime has targeted several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait. Over 4,000 projectiles, including more than 750 missiles, have been launched against these monarchies. The focus now is on strengthening defense lines, especially because the Western systems have supported in limiting casualties from Iranian offensives.
In response to the difficult-to-detect Shahed drones, fighters have proven highly effective in locating these drones with their radars and neutralizing them using cannons or missiles. France, through the deployment of its Rafale aircraft, has been patrolling above Emirati territory and intercepting Iranian drones, showcasing its defense capabilities. The Rafale aircraft, constituting around 30,000 parts, is a significant export for France, with the likes of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait among the top importers. The Middle East is emerging as a solid second market for defense exports from France, covering various sectors including land, air, naval, and intelligence.
However, Gulf countries are looking to reduce their dependence on Washington, which could benefit the French defense industry. Amid the ongoing conflict, start-ups aiming to disrupt the military industry are being tested for their capabilities, with some expressing disillusionment about the quality of solutions offered. Historically established defense actors may still hold an advantage over these new entrants in terms of reliability and effectiveness.
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged a faster production pace to meet the demand for defense supplies, highlighting infrastructure limitations as a challenge. The Defense Industry in France, which employed around 220,000 people in 2025, is gearing up to meet the growing defense needs, especially in the Middle East.
