"National defence, history and theory", by Professor Philippe Vial
The concept of national defence, which is fundamental to our institution, has a rich and eventful history. Historian Philippe Vial retraced this history in a lecture given to students at the 4th national session of the IHEDN. Part One (1870-1940).
The saga of the Rafale, the ultimate fighter jet
In 1983, France launched the programme for a revolutionary aircraft, which has been used by its armed forces since 2002, before enjoying export success. Focus on the history and characteristics of this evolving flagship, with insights from a pilot, a former Dassault Aviation engineer and General Philippe Lavigne, Chief of Staff of the French Air Force from 2018 to 2021.
Disinformation: how foreign stories find their way into France
In a study unveiled at the end of November in partnership with the IHEDN, the Descartes Foundation looks at the effects in France of foreign disinformation about conflicts. It is a ground-breaking study that offers a wealth of lessons, particularly in relation to the China-Taiwan crisis and the tensions between France and Mali.
The air-land dimension, a strategic challenge for the French Army
Highlighted at last week's Army presentation at the École Militaire, air-land space is increasingly essential for tactical and strategic mobility. Find out more.
The Rethondes carriage, from one armistice to the next
In 1918 and 1940, two agreements on the cessation of hostilities were signed in the same place, in a clearing in the Oise region. Why two armistices, in a railway carriage? A look back at these major historical events of the two world wars, in very different circumstances.
Admiral Vaujour: "The Navy must be resilient and retain operational superiority".
During the Euronaval exhibition, Admiral Nicolas Vaujour, Chief of Staff of the French Navy, takes stock of the major issues facing his armed forces: climate change, nuclear deterrence, technological proliferation, conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East... Interview.
Stéphane Taillat: "In cybersecurity, the United States' main vulnerability is its own system".
A researcher at the Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan Military Academy Research Centre (CReC), the historian has published "De la cybersécurité en Amérique", a detailed review of the latest developments in this field. As far as electoral interference is concerned, "we are a long way from 2016", he says. Interview.
Combat in urban areas, a high-intensity laboratory
Since the mid-twentieth century, the city has become the preferred location for fighting, a trend that is even more marked today in Ukraine and Gaza. In this compartmentalised environment, the balance of power is evened out and the hybridisation of conflict facilitated. Deciphered by military specialists.
Christophe Ayad: "For Hezbollah, hostility to Israel is radical, fundamental and permanent".
The journalist Christophe Ayad, author of "Géopolitique du Hezbollah" (Presses universitaires de France), explains the workings of the Lebanese Shiite political party, armed militia and terrorist group, which has been heavily hit by the Hebrew state in recent weeks. Major interview.
The heritage of the Ministry of Defence, spearheading defence culture
Dozens of sites belonging to the Ministry of the Armed Forces opened their doors this weekend for the European Heritage Days. Throughout the year, the MinArm is the French government's second-largest cultural player, even outside our borders, with its stone, human and intangible heritage. Here's a closer look.
