France’s Ministry of Armed Forces has unveiled its strategy for the nation’s military and political agenda in the Arctic region, aiming to secure the freedom of navigation, enhance surveillance and protect French interests.
The Arctic Defence Strategy outlines the nation’s priorities for the region until 2030. The plan’s objectives are categorized into seven key areas, which include mastering the Arctic theater and environment, developing bilateral partnerships with regional stakeholders, and investing in the Arctic space domain.
As part of the plan, Paris is also considering deploying new sensors and satellite infrastructure to monitor activities in the high latitudes through the IRIS2 space program.
In recent months, France’s presence in the Arctic has increased. In March, France partnered with Denmark to certify the capabilities of a military transport aircraft for use in Greenland. Additionally, the Western European nation has sent troops and equipment to the region to familiarize itself with its topography and other factors that could influence military operations.
In his foreword to the Arctic Defence Strategy document, Sebastien Lecornu, France’s minister for the armed forces, highlighted that the Arctic is evolving from a scientific laboratory to a critical area for protecting the interests of France and its allies.
“France cannot just look on. It has a special voice to make heard in this strategic region,” he said. “France has the duty to actively contribute to the stability of the Arctic together with its allies and partners, preserve its freedom of action and acquire the military capabilities that are adapted to this challenging environment.”