Evolving Deterrence and Defence in Europe: An Integrated Strategic Analysis

The European security architecture is undergoing its most profound transformation since 1945. Following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the "peace dividend" has been replaced by a "deterrence deficit." This analysis examines the two primary pillars of European security: NATO's conventional "Forward Defence" and France's recalibrating nuclear doctrine. It argues that while both have evolved, they remain siloed. To achieve a "strategically complete" posture, Europe must bridge the gap between conventional denial and nuclear signaling while addressing the industrial "cost-imbalance" of modern attrition.