The French Navy, officially the Marine nationale ("National Navy") and often called La Royale, is the maritime arm of the French military. Tracing its roots back from 1624 it is one of the world's oldest naval forces and historically played a key part in establishing the French colonial empire. Today it remains one of only three blue-water navies world wide (the other two being the United States Navy and Royal Navy) and its roles include the protection of French interests abroad, and the maintenance of global stability.

The Marine nationale consists of five branches, the Force d'Action Navale, the Forces Sous-marines, the Aviation Navale, the Fusiliers Marins (including Commandos de Marine) and the Gendarmerie maritime.

As a blue-water navy the Marine nationale operates a wide range of fighting vessels. Including a nuclear powered aircraft carrier, nuclear-powered submarines, frigates, patrol boats and support ships.

Its motto is Honneur, Patrie, Valeur, Discipline ("Honour, Fatherland, Valour, Discipline") and these words are found on the deck of every ship in the fleet.