1945-2025: eight decades of the French defence industry
In an instructive documentary, the French Defence Procurement Agency (Direction Générale de l'Armement) traces the reconstruction of the French industrial fabric after the Second World War, to equip what is now the largest army in the European Union. For IHEDN, the History Committee of the Confédération amicale des ingénieurs de l'armement (CAIA) looks back at the decisive choices made since the war.
The Arctic, "mirror of international tensions
New maritime routes, militarisation, status of ships and exploitation of resources: Virginie Saliou, a researcher in maritime security at the Strategic Research Institute of the École Militaire (IRSEM), sheds light on the Arctic, a strategic territory that has become the theatre of growing rivalry between the great powers.
Religions in the armed forces: brotherhood of arms... and of souls
With military chaplains from four faiths (Catholic, Protestant, Muslim and Jewish), the French armed forces benefit from a unique model that combines respect for the neutrality of the State and freedom of conscience. Explanations with representatives of each religion.
Mountain warfare: the most hostile battlefield
Rugged, compartmentalised terrain, the dangers of verticality, extreme climatic conditions... Focus on this very specific combat terrain, through emblematic campaigns and the insights of General Hervé de Courrèges, co-author of a reference work.
Winston Churchill: before the "old lion", the man of war
A trained officer and intrepid soldier, the British statesman fought on several fronts and headed various ministries linked to the armed forces before coming to power during the Second World War. A look back at the military aspects of his career with historian François Kersaudy.
Stealth in the deep: the saga of French submarines
A pioneer in submarine navigation, France opted for nuclear propulsion over half a century ago. A look back at the rich history and latest developments of this highly strategic fleet with Rear Admiral François Guichard, a submarine expert and practitioner.
Food sovereignty: a vital issue with security implications
To coincide with the international "Nutrition for Growth" summit, which France is hosting in Paris on 27 and 28 March, we focus on two trends that illustrate the security implications of food: the quest for food sovereignty and efforts to improve human nutrition.
Geopolitical influence and recomposition: the key role of strategic forums
The Paris Defence and Strategy Forum, which takes place this week, the Munich Conference and Globsec: these events are catalysts for geopolitical change. Here we look at their role as places of influence and strategic and diplomatic levers in a rapidly changing international context.
War in Ukraine: the unequal distribution of military aid
As the conflict enters its 4th year, the support given to Ukraine by its allies regularly raises controversy. Canadian political scientist Justin Massié took stock of its distribution and possible developments at an enlightening conference organised by IRSEM.
Civilian victims of war: the difficult issue of reparations
Civilians are systematically affected by conflicts, but their fate is recognised differently in different jurisdictions. Legal expert Élise Bernard and historian Fabrice Virgili shed light on the specific case of wartime rape.
