The French Air and Space Force: innovating to prevail

In the field of aeronautics in general, and within the Air and Space Force in particular, technology and innovation play a major role. Recent events have, in particular, demonstrated the extent to which new technologies (drones, space and communications systems, AI, electronic warfare, etc.), some of which are very basic, are transforming the nature of warfare. The conflict in Ukraine has, however, served as a reminder that true innovation does not lie in technology itself, but in the way it is used to create an advantage. It is the role of an organisation to create the conditions for processes to be put in place that will foster the emergence of new ideas, and above all the ‘proper use’ of the innovations they bring about. This session provided an opportunity to outline the major challenges facing the French Air and Space Force in order to continue to innovate and remain one of the world’s leading air forces.