French Defence Policy in a Global Context

Abstract

The emphasis placed on prévention and projection in Une Défense Nouvelle requires that a study of French defence policy gives attention to the French capacity to exercise military power outside Europe. At the same time French interests and French involvement around the world raise so many diverse and complex issues that a single chapter cannot but simplify analysis. To adapt to this limitation this chapter views French military reach through the lens of the armed forces. It describes the French military presence around the world and their roles in the 1990s, examines the implications of the 1996 defence reforms, and assesses the future trajectory of French policy by looking at trends in the projection of French conventional and nuclear power outside Europe.