The 2025 National Strategic Review: update or overhaul?

In his latest column, Vice Admiral Christian Girard presents an in-depth analysis of France's 2025 National Strategic Review. He asks some tough questions, including this crucial one: is this update enough to adapt French defence to the new geopolitical environment, particularly in light of the perceived Russian threat? He also questions France's political will and ability to overcome years of underinvestment and rethink its defence strategy. The admiral also addresses the place of defence within the sovereign functions of the state, the defence of Europe and the role of NATO, as well as French nuclear deterrence and support for Ukraine. A strategy is not just a list of goals to be achieved, but also the proposed path to achieve them. Everything remains to be done in this area.