Latest news with #Roux
Kuwait Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
France gives air base $1.7 billion nuclear facelift
LUXEUIL-LES-BAINS: In a sign of the growing security nerves in Europe, France has embarked on a $1.7 billion renovation of an air base in remote hills in the east of the country so it can handle nuclear-armed bombers. The work will take a decade but from 2035 the Luxeuil-Saint Sauveur base will be twice the size it is now and it will house new generation hypersonic missiles carried by 50 of France's Rafale fighter jets. President Emmanuel Macron announced at the base in March - on the day that US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin discussed the Ukraine war - that it was to become the first to welcome the latest Rafale jets and France's ASN4G nuclear-capable air-to-ground missiles. Luxeuil will become the fourth, but most modern, base in France capable of storing nuclear weapons. The base currently has about 20 Mirage-2000 jets, which are no longer in production. Its triangle shaped hangars date from 1952, according to base commander, Colonel Emmanuel Roux. They have been 'well used', according to Roux who said he had seen pictures of President Charles de Gaulle there in 1962. 'It was the same,' he joked. The hangars will go as the Rafales will not fit in them. 'We will have to redo everything for the infrastructure,' the colonel said. The Rafale is also heavier than the Mirage so Luxeuil's runway will also have to be made longer and tougher. As nuclear bases are given extra protection, 'we will have to increase security measures and the entire infrastructure to get up to speed,' the colonel said, likening his work to 'building a cathedral'. 'We have 10 years to build the best base in France with planes that do not exist (yet), a nuclear weapon that does not exist and technicians who are not yet in school,' said Roux. Luxeuil will be closed between 2029 and 2032 for the key works and the arrival of the first Rafales. There will be four times as many pilots as now as the Rafale has two crew. The 300 technicians currently at the base will expand to 1,000 by the time the new base is fully operational. 'Logistics wins the war,' said Roux who highlighted the importance of speed in preparing jets for faster rotations between flights. A Rafale engine can be changed in one hour and an ejector seat in 15 minutes, he said. Pilots at the base, who cannot be named, also said they were ready to carry nuclear weapons. 'It's the weapon of last resort, but I think we're all ready to use it to protect our loved ones and our nation,' said one. — AFP Luxeuil is close to France's border with Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Belgium and the position could also prove strategic. Macron has also said that with the Russian invasion of Ukraine raging and heightening worries in the rest of Europe, France is ready to start discussing with other European countries the possible deployment of French nuclear-armed jets. 'I will define the framework in a very specific way in the weeks and months to come,' Macron said in a television interview this month. Russia has already condemned his comments. 'The proliferation of nuclear weapons on the European continent is something that will not add security, predictability or stability to the European continent,' said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. — AFP
Local France
3 days ago
- Politics
- Local France
France gives air base $1.7 billion nuclear facelift
The work will take a decade but from 2035 the Luxeuil-Saint Sauveur base will be twice the size it is now and it will house new generation hypersonic missiles carried by 50 of France's Rafale fighter jets. President Emmanuel Macron announced at the base in March -- on the day that US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin discussed the Ukraine war -- that it was to become the first to welcome the latest Rafale jets and France's ASN4G nuclear-capable air-to-ground missiles. Luxeuil will become the fourth, but most modern, base in France capable of storing nuclear weapons. The base currently has about 20 Mirage-2000 jets, which are no longer in production. Its triangle shaped hangars date from 1952, according to base commander, Colonel Emmanuel Roux. They have been "well used", according to Roux who said he had seen pictures of President Charles de Gaulle there in 1962. "It was the same," he joked. The hangars will go as the Rafales will not fit in them. "We will have to redo everything for the infrastructure," the colonel said. The Rafale is also heavier than the Mirage so Luxeuil's runway will also have to be made longer and tougher. Nuclear deterrent As nuclear bases are given extra protection, "we will have to increase security measures and the entire infrastructure to get up to speed," the colonel said, likening his work to "building a cathedral". Advertisement "We have 10 years to build the best base in France with planes that do not exist (yet), a nuclear weapon that does not exist and technicians who are not yet in school," said Roux. Luxeuil will be closed between 2029 and 2032 for the key works and the arrival of the first Rafales. There will be four times as many pilots as now as the Rafale has two crew. The 300 technicians currently at the base will expand to 1,000 by the time the new base is fully operational. "Logistics wins the war," said Roux who highlighted the importance of speed in preparing jets for faster rotations between flights. A Rafale engine can be changed in one hour and an ejector seat in 15 minutes, he said. Pilots at the base, who cannot be named, also said they were ready to carry nuclear weapons. "It's the weapon of last resort, but I think we're all ready to use it to protect our loved ones and our nation," said one. Advertisement Luxeuil is close to France's border with Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Belgium and the position could also prove strategic. Macron has also said that with the Russian invasion of Ukraine raging and heightening worries in the rest of Europe, France is ready to start discussing with other European countries the possible deployment of French nuclear-armed jets. "I will define the framework in a very specific way in the weeks and months to come," Macron said in a television interview this month. Russia has already condemned his comments. "The proliferation of nuclear weapons on the European continent is something that will not add security, predictability or stability to the European continent," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
France gives air base $1.7 billion nuclear facelift
Representative Image (AI-generated) In a sign of the growing security nerves in Europe, France has embarked on a $1.7 billion renovation of an air base in remote hills in the east of the country so it can handle nuclear-armed bombers. The work will take a decade but from 2035 the Luxeuil-Saint Sauveur base will be twice the size it is now and it will house new generation hypersonic missiles carried by 50 of France's Rafale fighter jets . President Emmanuel Macron announced at the base in March -- on the day that US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin discussed the Ukraine war -- that it was to become the first to welcome the latest Rafale jets and France's ASN4G nuclear-capable air-to-ground missiles. Luxeuil will become the fourth, but most modern, base in France capable of storing nuclear weapons. The base currently has about 20 Mirage-2000 jets, which are no longer in production. Its triangle shaped hangars date from 1952, according to base commander, Colonel Emmanuel Roux. They have been "well used", according to Roux who said he had seen pictures of President Charles de Gaulle there in 1962. "It was the same," he joked. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The hangars will go as the Rafales will not fit in them. "We will have to redo everything for the infrastructure," the colonel said. The Rafale is also heavier than the Mirage so Luxeuil's runway will also have to be made longer and tougher. Nuclear deterrent: As nuclear bases are given extra protection, "we will have to increase security measures and the entire infrastructure to get up to speed," the colonel said, likening his work to "building a cathedral". "We have 10 years to build the best base in France with planes that do not exist (yet), a nuclear weapon that does not exist and technicians who are not yet in school," said Roux. Luxeuil will be closed between 2029 and 2032 for the key works and the arrival of the first Rafales. There will be four times as many pilots as now as the Rafale has two crew. The 300 technicians currently at the base will expand to 1,000 by the time the new base is fully operational. "Logistics wins the war," said Roux who highlighted the importance of speed in preparing jets for faster rotations between flights. A Rafale engine can be changed in one hour and an ejector seat in 15 minutes, he said. Pilots at the base, who cannot be named, also said they were ready to carry nuclear weapons. "It's the weapon of last resort, but I think we're all ready to use it to protect our loved ones and our nation," said one. Luxeuil is close to France's border with Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Belgium and the position could also prove strategic. Macron has also said that with the Russian invasion of Ukraine raging and heightening worries in the rest of Europe, France is ready to start discussing with other European countries the possible deployment of French nuclear-armed jets. "I will define the framework in a very specific way in the weeks and months to come," Macron said in a television interview this month. Russia has already condemned his comments. "The proliferation of nuclear weapons on the European continent is something that will not add security, predictability or stability to the European continent," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
France gives air base $1.7 billion nuclear facelift
In a sign of the growing security nerves in Europe, France has embarked on a $1.7 billion renovation of an air base in remote hills in the east of the country so it can handle nuclear-armed bombers. The work will take a decade but from 2035 the Luxeuil-Saint Sauveur base will be twice the size it is now and it will house new generation hypersonic missiles carried by 50 of France's Rafale fighter jets. President Emmanuel Macron announced at the base in March on the day that US President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin discussed the Ukraine war that it was to become the first to welcome the latest Rafale jets and France's ASN4G nuclear-capable air-to-ground missiles. Luxeuil will become the fourth, but most modern, base in France capable of storing nuclear weapons. The base currently has about 20 Mirage-2000 jets, which are no longer in production. Its triangle shaped hangars date from 1952, according to base commander, Colonel Emmanuel Roux. They have been "well used", according to Roux who said he had seen pictures of President Charles de Gaulle there in 1962. "It was the same," he joked. The hangars will go as the Rafales will not fit in them. "We will have to redo everything for the infrastructure," the colonel said. The Rafale is also heavier than the Mirage so Luxeuil's runway will also have to be made longer and tougher. As nuclear bases are given extra protection, "we will have to increase security measures and the entire infrastructure to get up to speed," the colonel said, likening his work to "building a cathedral". "We have 10 years to build the best base in France with planes that do not exist , a nuclear weapon that does not exist and technicians who are not yet in school," said Roux. Luxeuil will be closed between 2029 and 2032 for the key works and the arrival of the first Rafales. There will be four times as many pilots as now as the Rafale has two crew. The 300 technicians currently at the base will expand to 1,000 by the time the new base is fully operational. "Logistics wins the war," said Roux who highlighted the importance of speed in preparing jets for faster rotations between flights. A Rafale engine can be changed in one hour and an ejector seat in 15 minutes, he said. Pilots at the base, who cannot be named, also said they were ready to carry nuclear weapons. "It's the weapon of last resort, but I think we're all ready to use it to protect our loved ones and our nation," said one. Luxeuil is close to France's border with Germany, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Belgium and the position could also prove strategic. Macron has also said that with the Russian invasion of Ukraine raging and heightening worries in the rest of Europe, France is ready to start discussing with other European countries the possible deployment of French nuclear-armed jets. "I will define the framework in a very specific way in the weeks and months to come," Macron said in a television interview this month. Russia has already condemned his comments. "The proliferation of nuclear weapons on the European continent is something that will not add security, predictability or stability to the European continent," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. bar/tw/giv
IOL News
5 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Nampak's turnaround starting to pay off as interim profit soars to R3 billion
Nampak reported a total profit from operations of R3 billion in the six months to March 31, compared with a R135 million loss at the same time last year, and it also substantially reduced debt. Image: supplied In a striking demonstration of fiscal resilience, South Africa's metals packaging group Nampak has recorded a remarkable turnaround in its financial fortunes for the six months ending March 31. The company reported a profit of R3 billion, a stark contrast to a loss of R135 million reported during the same period last year. This turnaround has not only bolstered its's position, but also highlighted the impact of strategic management amid a tightening consumer environment. CEO Phildon Roux shared insights on the results, noting that earnings a share surged to 35 842.2 cents — a robust recovery from a loss of 1 123.5 cents in the first half of the previous year. 'The first half yielded a rewarding financial outcome,' Roux stated, attributing the momentum to a concentrated focus on margin management, cost containment, and efficiency enhancements. This approach resulted in a 22% increase in trading profit alongside a 7% rise in operating profit. The company's commitment to reducing debt was evidenced by the sale of Bevcan Nigeria, which netted R1.3bn and marked a pivotal milestone in their deleveraging strategy. This, combined with strong operating cash flow and lower interest costs, facilitated improved financial metrics despite an uptick in net working capital investments. While the previous year's operating profit was significantly buoyed by a R290m post-retirement medical aid (PRMA) gain, Nampak's current performance reflects the effective management of financial assets. The firm recognised a R65m pension fund surplus and a R100m interim settlement from an outstanding Covid-19 insurance claim, enhancing headline earnings although less substantially than in prior periods. Revenue from continuing operations grew by 11% to R5.7bn, propelled by both volume growth and strategic price management. This growth was particularly noted in Beverage South Africa (up 7%), Diversified South Africa (up 14%), and Beverage Angola, which saw a stark 16% increase. However, Beverage South Africa faced challenges with the slower-than-planned expansion of its Springs Line 2, underscoring a mismatch between growing demand and available supply. Trading profits also saw a healthy rise, climbing 22% to R764m. The better-than-expected performance was largely driven by a 49% surge in Diversified South Africa and a 33% boost in Beverage Angola. These sectors reported particularly strong revenue growth, highlighting the effectiveness of Nampak's strategies in regions facing varying economic climates. Roux remarked on the focus placed on excellent margin management and cost control, praising the impressive performance of Diversified South Africa, which was supported by organic growth and an improved supply chain for fruit and fish cans. The earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) also saw a commendable rise of 7% to R1.1bn supporting the company's overall financial health. Despite the improved cash flow from operations, the outflow of working capital registered higher than usual due to escalating revenue levels. Nevertheless, management has prioritised improvements in collections, successfully offsetting some of the increased cash requirements. The impact of the initial tranche of the disputed Covid-19 insurance claim continues to assist working capital, a factor that Roux acknowledges as crucial for sustaining momentum. As part of its ongoing commitment to financial resilience, Nampak has reduced its net debt significantly from R5.7bn to R3.9bn, a success attributed to strategic asset disposals and prudent cash management. The outlook is optimistic, with Roux confident that the local beverage market's growth potentials remain strong, outpacing supply. Strategic initiatives are already underway to expand capacity and enhance operational efficiencies. 'The outlook for the Nampak group remains promising. The continuity of our strategic and cultural interventions bodes well for sustaining performance in the future,' Roux concluded, hinting at a solid trajectory for the company as it navigates through challenges and seeks to fulfil growing market demands. Visit:
