From 2 to 20 June 2025, the Institut des hautes études de défense nationale (IHEDN) will be holding its 244th regional session in Réunion. This will be the fourth overseas session since 2022, under the partnership agreement with the French Overseas Departments and Territories (DGOM). For three weeks, the 49 auditors selected will undergo intensive training in the field, punctuated by expert lectures, strategic visits and debates on key themes: internal security and justice, resilience in the face of crises, health and environmental issues specific to Réunion, not forgetting Mayotte's strategic position in the Indo-Pacific.
The session was officially launched on Monday 2 June in the rooms of the Hôtel Préfectoral in Saint-Denis, a listed building. Prefect Patrice Latron, represented by sub-prefect Frédéric Sautron, welcomed the class, emphasising the fundamental role of the State in defending national interests in overseas territories.
Major General Jean-Marc Giraud, Commander of the Armed Forces in the Southern Indian Ocean Zone (FAZSOI), gave a keynote speech on the ambition to transform Réunion and Mayotte into genuine strategic support points. He spoke in particular of the modernisation of conventional capabilities, the strengthening of cyber and information systems, and investment in port and airport infrastructures.
Jean-Michel Delvert, sub-prefect and representative of the Director of the IHEDN, Lieutenant General Hervé de Courrèges, then officially opened the session. He placed this 244th session in the long-term context of the Institute's activities and the current geostrategic situation.
After an overview of national defence and its institutions, listeners enjoyed a convivial chat before heading off to their base camp for the week. The afternoon began with a historical perspective on contemporary conflicts, a prelude to the committee work that will punctuate the three weeks.
The first two hours were spent in sub-groups getting to know each other, followed by an informal ice-breaker to round off a rich and intense first day.
Then it's on to the Port des Galets naval base for the first field visit.
