France’s Air Force is using lessons from the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East to refine its preparation for potential nuclear strikes, Politico reported.

According to the outlet, Paris sees this training as part of its strategy for deterring Russia. Around four times a year, roughly 50 French Air Force aircraft take part in drills simulating a nuclear strike against a hypothetical hostile state.

Politico reported that France is seeking to ensure its air-launched cruise missiles equipped with nuclear warheads remain a credible deterrent as nuclear weapons return to the center of Europe’s security debate.

In March, French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to increase the number of nuclear warheads in the country’s arsenal. At the same time, French authorities decided to stop publishing exact figures on the size of the stockpile.

Macron also said that if France were forced to use its nuclear arsenal, no state would be able to avoid the consequences regardless of its military power or territorial size.