
FORUM DE DEFENSE ET DE STRATEGIE

N°53, 04/2026
Revue de Presse Défense & Diplomatie
Presseschau Außen- und Verteidigungspolitik
Press Review (Defence and Diplomacy)

Drones au-dessus de l’Europe : l’impact des incursions russes sur la stratégie européenne
The incursions of drones into European airspace, attributed to Russia, pose a major challenge to the security of the EU and NATO. These incidents, targeting critical infrastructures (airports, military bases, energy facilities), have accelerated European mobilization to strengthen anti-drone defense capabilities. The EU has adopted an ambitious roadmap for 2030, including an "anti-drone wall" and cooperation mechanisms with NATO, while adapting its legislation to allow military interceptions in peacetime. These measures are part of a context of rising hybrid tensions and preparation for a potential Russian aggression.
La dronisation dans le combat naval : prototype conceptuel de l’agilité face à la menace
Dronization is transforming naval combat by offering opportunities for massification, durability, and diversification of military capabilities. Drones—whether aerial, surface, or underwater—allow for compensating numerical inferiorities, operating in hostile environments (CBRN, underwater), and optimizing detection and engagement. However, their integration raises doctrinal, industrial, and ethical challenges, requiring an agile and collaborative approach to prepare for future conflicts. The article explores the necessary adaptations in doctrine, training, and industrial cooperation to fully leverage this technological revolution.
Stratégies chinoises et équilibres de puissance en Océanie insulaire
China is expanding its influence in Island Oceania by combining economic, diplomatic, and security partnerships, following its "win-win" strategy. Although small, island states demonstrate creativity in leveraging this presence while navigating between Chinese interests and those of traditional powers (United States, Australia, New Zealand). However, Sino-American competition makes the region particularly sensitive, with increasing reactions from the United States and its allies to counter Beijing's influence.
Nordic Approaches to Total Defence
Facing the rapid evolution of the security environment after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Nordic countries are strengthening their deterrence by developing "total defense" models. These models integrate military capabilities with civilian resilience, critical infrastructure protection, and whole-of-society preparedness. This holistic approach aims to improve Nordic countries' ability to face hybrid threats and strengthen their cooperation within NATO.
The Mountaintop Mirage: Why Xi’s Military Purges Cannot Produce the Force He Wants
The article addresses the military purges in China under Xi Jinping. Although intended to strengthen loyalty and efficiency in the army, these purges could actually weaken the operational capabilities of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
The Strange Rise and Fall of Russia’s Crowd-Sourced Defense Industry
The article explores the rise and fall of Russia's defense industry based on "crowdsourcing" (participatory financing and open innovation). This model, which allowed Russia to bypass certain sanctions and develop innovative military capabilities, is now showing its limits.
Political Accession First: A New Pact for Ukraine to Join the EU
Facing the challenges posed by Ukraine's accession to the EU, Leo Litra proposes an innovative model: PACT (Political Accession with Commitments to Transformation). This model would grant Ukraine immediate political membership status, notably by applying Article 42(7) of the EU Treaty (mutual defense clause), while conditioning access to rights and EU funds to the implementation of verified reforms. The goal is to facilitate the peace process while reassuring member states about the credibility of Ukrainian reforms. This model could also serve as a framework for other accession candidates.
Cyber-Kommandeur der Bundeswehr lehnt Software von Palantir ab
Vice Admiral Thomas Daum, Inspector of the Cyber and Information Space Command of the Bundeswehr, has rejected the use of software from the American company Palantir within the German armed forces. Although this software, such as Maven, is used by NATO and offers advanced data analysis and AI-based recommendation features, Daum considers it unthinkable to grant Palantir and its employees access to German national data. This decision comes in a context of distrust towards foreign companies, particularly due to controversies surrounding the extremist positions of Palantir's leadership. The Bundeswehr prefers a European solution.
Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP)
SWP is a German political science research institute that provides independent analysis and advice on international relations, foreign policy, and security. Its work covers a wide range of topics, including geopolitical dynamics, international conflicts, and defense strategies. SWP plays a key role in informing German and European policymakers about contemporary strategic issues.