IHEDN: 90 years promoting defence culture and resilience
For nine decades, the Institute for Advanced National Defence Studies has been a unique centre for reflection and knowledge transfer in the service of national defence and security.
On the occasion of its 90th anniversary, IHEDN looks back on the history of the Institute and the values that have guided its work since 1936: openness, intellectual rigour and dialogue between the civil and military worlds.
Through articles and videos giving a voice to its listeners, this anniversary feature highlights what defines IHEDN's identity and what continues to drive it forward: training enlightened minds capable of understanding the strategic challenges of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
90 years of commitment to serving the nation's defence culture and resilience.
A message from the director on this anniversary year
On the occasion of IHEDN's 90th anniversary, the director addresses the Institute's community to celebrate its history, values and unique role in defence culture. Tracing the origins of IHEDN, he then offers a retrospective look at the year 2025, shares his vision for 2026 and presents the major projects to come, reminding us that better understanding for better action remains at the heart of our commitment and our mission in the service of strategic thinking.
90 YEARS OF STRATEGIC THINKING: THE FOUNDING LEGACY OF ADMIRAL CASTEX
As the IHEDN celebrates nine decades of service to the nation, we look back at the career of its first director, Raoul Castex. A visionary and architect of French strategic culture, he forged the spirit of defence that still inspires our students today and sheds light on the challenges of contemporary sovereignty.
exhibition: IHEDN, 90 years of defence culture
To celebrate its 90ᵉ anniversary, the IHEDN is offering an exhibition retracing the history of the Institute since its creation in 1936. Archives, images and quotations highlight nine decades of commitment in the service of defence culture and strategic thinking.
Discover IHEDN: history, missions and values
To celebrate its 90th anniversary, IHEDN invites you to discover its history, missions and values through testimonials from participants in various sessions. This video illustrates the Institute's commitment to promoting defence culture and supporting civilian and military decision-makers, in keeping with its motto: «Understand in order to act, understand each other in order to act together».
This film was made with the support of IHEDN endowment fund.
