Pascal Pincemin

Just a few weeks ago, the European Defence Fund (EDF) announced the results of the 2023 calls for proposals, allocating over 1 billion Euros of EU funding to support 54 collaborative European defense R&D projects. On June 20th, the 2024 calls for proposals will open, providing another significant boost for defense cooperation in Europe. #EuropeanDefense #RandD #Collaboration #DefenseIndustry

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According to the July 2024 NATO Washington Summit Declaration, “Transatlantic defence industrial cooperation is a critical part of NATO’s deterrence and defence. Strengthened defence industry across Europe and North America and enhanced defence industrial cooperation among Allies makes us more capable and better able to deliver against the requirements of NATO's defence plans in a timely manner.” This AmCham EU paper provides some insightful perspectives.

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This morning, I had the privilege of speaking at the 4th European Defence and Security Conference in #Brussels, one among the leading platforms for in-depth discussions on political, technological and industrial challenges in security and defence at the EU level.   The current geopolitical context, brought to boiling point by the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, has led to a change in the paradigm of deterrence, pushing #Defence on top of the priorities for the #EU Commision. Important steps ahead have already been taken, but more can be done towards a more integrated European defence approach.   As I emphasized during my remarks, on the operational side of conflicts, the ability to dominate the #electromagnetic spectrum, due to its interconnection and ability to manage large amounts of data, is essential for navigating this new era. Policymakers should ensure local readiness and competitiveness of technologies while reducing dependence on non-EU suppliers, fostering investments in EMSO technologies, while establishing adequate and rapid production lines, leveraging the role of SMEs, which are the heart of Europe. Ensuring the security of the #supplychain and promoting collaboration among European companies is also crucial. We need to move beyond the traditional client-supplier dynamic and build an integrated, competitive value chain that fosters specialization and technological growth. #EDSC European Defence and Security Conference ELT Group

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The current geopolitical scenario demonstrates how greater cooperation among the different countries is essential for Europe to overcome the fragmentation of the continental #defence industry. This is the starting point for Roberto Cingolani's analysis, which highlights – in an interview with the French newspaper Les Echos - how the traditional concept of Defence has today expanded towards a broader concept, the #globalsecurity, which includes energy, food, infrastructure and #cybersecurity. In this context, to defend peace requires a collective commitment from the industry. According to our Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, “Companies are called upon to explore and develop new synergies among themselves, encouraging governments to cooperate”. A greater collaboration in which technology will increasingly play a decisive role, with investments in #artificialintelligence and #digitalisation to face the challenges of the new multi-domain scenarios. Read the full interview here: http://lnrdo.co/3KTjPWR

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EUROPEAN DEFENCE & SECURITY SUMMIT 2024 In her opening speech at the summit, Ludivine Dedonder briefly outlined the following points. 🌍 Strengthening Defense and Solidarity:  First of all, Minister underlined Belgium's firm determination to strengthen its defense capacity and deepen its support to Ukraine. He underlined that they will continue to focus on improving technology within the armed forces, increasing interoperability and fostering strong partnerships, with a large amount of strategic investment planned and increased until 2030. Unwavering Support for Ukraine: Belgium's support for Ukraine is unwavering and multifaceted; She stated that these include military, financial and humanitarian aid. She also mentioned that, as the Belgian state, they are committed to the modernization of the Ukrainian armed forces and the provision of long-term security guarantees, and that this commitment goes beyond the military sphere, addressing broader social challenges, and that these efforts strengthen the foundations of our democracy. Developing Partnerships and Interoperability: In her speech, Mrs. Minister also emphasized the importance of coordinated defense efforts with allies and interoperable systems. This strategic approach will not only strengthen collective defense capabilities, but also solidify our unity. Future Vision: "These efforts are vital not only for today's challenges, but also for shaping the future of the European Union. We stand together in our mission to defend democratic values and ensure peace and stability in Europe for future generations." Let us continue to stand united and resilient as we build a safe and prosperous future for all. #DefenceSummit #Solidarity #FutureOfEurope #SupportUkraine

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An interesting exchange was published on the French National Assembly website last week. In October 2023, Frank Giletti, a member of the National Rally and secretary of the National Defence & Armed Forces Commission, asked the French Minister for the Armed Forces what plans were in place for the replacement of the AlphaJets used by the national display team, the Patrouille de France (PAF).   In 2019, General Philippe Lavigne, Chief of the Staff of the Air Force, said that the AlphaJets could remain in operation until 2035, and that ‘reflections were underway regarding the succession of the AlphaJet’. Mr Giletti sought clarification as to where any plans might have got to. “Is there currently any reflection underway within government or military authorities on this subject?” He asked.   The response was published last week and confirmed France’s interest in a modular solution. While it was stated that fighter pilot training on PC-21s is currently giving ‘complete satisfaction’ and won’t be changed until 2040, the statement reads: “It [therefore] appears necessary to back up the mission of the PAF with another mission, that of the operational preparation of the forces, currently carried out by the fighter squadrons on Rafale, Mirage and, to a lesser extent, AlphaJet within the 3/8 Squadron in Cazaux.   “It will therefore be a question of replacing the AlphaJet, used not only for the PAF but also for certain ‘Red Air’ missions in order to partially relieve front line units of air opposition hours, particularly those which are of less tactical interest.   “Beyond 2032, the sustainability of the PAF is not called into question and all solutions are also possible and studied, in particular with the United Kingdom and Spain.   “These solutions consist of developing or acquiring a modular aircraft meeting both the patrol needs of Red Air, but also a complementary aircraft, in the light of the SCAF (Système de combat aérien du futur, or Future Combat Air System (FCAS)) and its manned vector, the NGF (New Generation Fighter).”   This is, of course, a very encouraging insight. However, while the application of a modular aircraft system like AERALIS will deliver the ‘swing-role’ capability that the French Air Force describes above, there is a wider opportunity – one that will result in even greater cost and logistics savings, while also delivering to March 2023’s joint declaration from France and the United Kingdom to “commit to ensure interoperability of weapons and platforms across Europe and NATO.”   AERALIS and Babcock France are already working together to develop flexible solutions to provide AERALIS configurations to air forces on-demand as a service – as set out in the AERALIS AERFLEX service model. This includes flexible and affordable 5th and 6th generation combat air support and training constructs; but there is no reason why display team roles could not also be part of this solution.

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latest #Eurobarometer ! encouraging for next EU #defence Commissioner 77% of Europeans are in favour of a common defence and security policy among EU countries while 71% of EU citizens agree that the EU needs to reinforce its capacity to produce military equipment. At the same time, 69% of EU citizens are for a common foreign policy of the Member States. 67% agree that the EU is a place of stability in a troubled world and 69% that the EU has sufficient power and tools to defend the economic interests of Europe in the global economy.

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EU Defence Policy Directors convened in Brussels on 16 May to exchange on their priorities for the future of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) beyond 2025, as part of the PESCO Strategic Review launched by the Council last year. As PESCO will reach its 10-year milestone during its next phase, the Review is a major opportunity to adapt this initiative to the changing environment and make it fit for purpose for the coming years. The event, co-organised with the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU, confirmed the central role of PESCO in deepening defence cooperation to invest together and increase our ability to act. A more impactful and coherent PESCO beyond 2025 will further contribute to the objectives of the Strategic Compass to strengthen the EU’s role as a more assertive global player by becoming a stronger peace enabler, reliable security provider and capable defence actor. Read more on PESCO and its projects: https://europa.eu/!jjjdRF.

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Discours de prise de fonction de l'amiral Pierre VANDIER, nouveau SACT de l'OTAN (Norfolk, 23 septembre 2024): "I am thrilled and deeply honoured to take on the role of NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Transformation. ...   As you all know, in our democracies, the return of systemic threats to our societies, and in particular military threats, have strengthened most of our citizens’ trust in the value of alliances and collective defence.   Since the return of high intensity war in Europe, at a scale that echoes some of the horrors and destructions of WWII, the North Atlantic Alliance has been crucial to European Allies’ security and defence.   Russia’s war of aggression against UKR has rekindled our 1949 DNA. We are back to NATO’s core business.   To be clear, the readiness of our forces; their ability to deter and, if necessary, to defend; the quality of our plans – are essential to our Alliance’s credibility.   War, I must say, is an extraordinary teaching machine. However, brutal and unforgiving.   Every single day, UKR soldiers, unit commanders and top brass must learn, adapt, create, reinvent, innovate, in order to survive and to win the battles. And ultimately, to prevail in this war.   That shows us the speed at which UKR forces are taking advantage of technologies that have not previously been deployed at such a scale: drones, robots and digital technologie and so much.   For all of us here, maintaining our military credibility calls for an extraordinary effort to modernize. Modernize our training; aggregate new technologies; invent new combat tactics that will give us operational superiority in a context of rapid global rearmament.   We know that globally accessible technologies may reduce the operational edge we were used to.   As vice CHOD in France, and previously as Chief of the French Navy, I have experimented enough to be aware of the complexity of what we must do.   Success critically depends on the force commanders’ consciousness of the urgency of bringing in the field new ways of fighting.   At the end of the day, it is our men and woman in uniform that are defending the values that are ours, it is our men and woman in uniform that are risking their lives so we can all live in peace.   My commitment, our collective commitment, is to provide the most efficient tools and procedures that will give them operational success in conflict and war. We owe it to them.   Being SACT at this very special moment in NATO’s 75-year history, is a considerable task.   With the help of all of you; with the trust of the entire ACT Team; with fellow NATO commanders and staffs; fully confident in our skills; building on our Alliance’ diverse military experiences, building on our invaluable, complementary know-how, and leadership …we will contribute together to an even more efficient Alliance, a more credible Alliance.   An Alliance that has stood strong for 75 years now, and that I pledge wholeheartedly to make even stronger" #faireface

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Important reading. 💡

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Standing for “Part of the Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/203 on Information Security in the Aviation System,” Part-IS establishes a unified set of rules and guidelines, aiming to ensure that entities within the #Aviation sector achieve a fundamental level of #CyberSecurity.   You may be aware of the changes that you need to make to comply with the regulation in 2025, but you’re concerned about the time, expertise and resources needed. Or you may be starting from scratch.   Whatever your situation, NCC Group is here to help.   To learn more about who it affects, and the steps you need to take to achieve full compliance, visit our new website: https://bit.ly/part15Ncc

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Discover the #Belgian #defence #industry, explore the increasing military expenditure on a global scale, Belgium’s strategic military significance in Europe and its proximity to major defence suppliers like France, Germany, and the UK, in this new publication by our colleagues of the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency (BFTA). Great read!

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🌍✨ 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐇𝐈𝐃 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐠𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐔 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 ✨🌍 As Belgium concludes its Presidency of the Council of the EU, let's reflect on the pivotal events organised by the Royal Higher Institute for Defence (RHID): crucial discussions shaping the future of European security and defence. 🔄 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐔𝐬𝐞 – 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 (𝐆𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝟐𝟐-𝟐𝟑 𝐅𝐞𝐛 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) With Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder, we explored military mobility, focusing on infrastructures, intra-EU movements, funding and cyber resilience. This seminar paved the way for conclusions to enhance the EU's strategic capabilities. 🌍 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧, 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 (𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐢, 𝟐𝟏 𝐌𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) A dedicated forum where leaders examined the vital role of women in promoting peace and security, aligning with the EU’s commitment to inclusive defence policies. ⚓ 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 (𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐲, 𝟏𝟔 𝐀𝐩𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) We delved into the security dynamics of the North Sea, the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the Gulf of Guinea, addressing issues from regional conflicts to piracy and crafting strategic responses for Europe’s maritime future. 🏭 𝐄𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 (𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢, 𝟑𝟎 𝐀𝐩𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) A crucial gathering highlighting Europe's defence industry, discussing innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to strengthen our collective defence framework. 💻 𝐂𝐲𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 (𝐎𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝 & 𝐑𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐲, 𝟐𝟏-𝟐𝟑 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) In the era of hybrid threats, experts examined the impacts of digital evolution and cognitive warfare, strategising on how to safeguard democracy amidst rising disinformation and psychological operations. 🌍𝐀𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫 (𝐄𝐠𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞, 𝟒 𝐉𝐮𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒) A deep dive into Africa’s security landscape, fostering dialogue on defence collaboration and sustainable peace initiatives with our African partners. Each event, organised in collaboration with the Centre for Security and Defence Studies, has been a step towards strengthening the EU's security and defence posture, contributing to a safer and more resilient Europe. Thanks to all participants and partners for their invaluable contributions! 🙌 #EUSecurity #DefenceInnovation #BelgianEUPresidency #RHID #FutureOfEurope #EU2024BE https://lnkd.in/efKujwuY

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Not every day my name is cited in French press! Leaving aside for a moment the slight hyperbole in the article (not least that the BritCham EU Defence and Security Committee which I co-chair is not a secretive organisation - indeed, we had a public launch in Brussels earlier this year!), the statement by Éric Béranger, CEO of MBDA, that we need to think in terms of a 'geographic Europe' is fundamental. The defence and security industry is not split so easily into the dichotomy of UK vs EU. This is a European industry. To strengthen Europe so that it is able to effectively meet current and future security challenges, we need to strengthen European defence and security industrial collaboration. It is essential for the UK, as a core European security actor, to play a part - otherwise Europe as a whole is weaker for it. Rud Pedersen UK Rud Pedersen Group

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After facing some initial challenges, European research into anti-hypersonic defense is gaining momentum. Despite being initially excluded from the TWISTER project, MBDA persevered and successfully obtained the launch of a second project by the European Commission, the HYpersonic Defense Interceptor Study (HYDIS²), for which €80 million was earmarked. During the 2023 Paris Air Show, I was able to attend the presentation of this project by Lionel MAZENQ, the Group Head of Programme Incubator at MBDA’s Future Systems Directorate, who emphasized the European manufacturer’s edge in creating effective interceptors, drawing on its experience in developing and producing long-range strike missiles. The study conducted by an MBDA-led consortium involves multiple interceptor designs with different architectures: one two-stage and two three-stage interceptors. The concept phase of this project, which spans three years, has received an €80 million financial contract from the European Defence Fund. The aim is to have a viable interceptor capability ready by 2030-2035. On May 15, 2024, MBDA signed two significant contracts with the OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation), marking the launch of the project's concept phase. For more information on hypersonic weapons, find my articles for AeroTime in the comments. (📸 MBDA) #AeroTime

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Is there still a market in particular on Telecom for 2 giants in Europe?

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With the new EU institutions settling in, those of us in the Brussels arena are reflecting on how to adapt to the changing political environment. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities, emphasising the need to weave communications and advocacy more closely than ever. The complexities of EU policymaking mean that effective engagement requires more than traditional advocacy. It's about crafting messages that resonate, building relationships, and fostering understanding across diverse stakeholders. Importantly, there's now a growing space to advocate for competitiveness and pragmatic solutions, rather than focusing solely on sustainability at all costs. At the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) , we recognise this shift and are committed to improving our advocacy by more closely integrating communications and EU affairs. We will: ✈️Promote balanced policies by advocating for initiatives that bolster competitiveness while supporting sustainable practices, demonstrating that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. ✈️Enhance communication strategies by developing impactful narratives that connect with policymakers and the public, highlighting the value of business aviation to Europe's economy. ✈️Leverage digital platforms by utilising innovative communication channels to reach a wider audience and engage in more interactive dialogues. ✈️Facilitate open dialogue by creating forums and events that encourage the exchange of ideas, fostering mutual understanding between the industry and policymakers (meet us at our summit on December 5th!👀👀) To learn more about our strategic priorities and the path forward, I invite you to read our newly published policy manifesto with the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, where we outline our commitment to advancing the business aviation sector in Europe. https://lnkd.in/eYeABQec #BusinessAviation #EUPolicy #Advocacy #Communications #Competitiveness #Sustainability #EuropeanBusinessAviationAssociation #GAMA #AviationIndustry #EUInstitutions #Brussels #PolicyManifesto #Innovation #Collaboration #DigitalEngagement

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France’s underappreciated air power in the Indo-Pacific 19 Aug 2024 | Marvin Girelli France’s underappreciated air presence in the Indo-Pacific underscores its long-term commitment to regional partnerships, especially with Australia. It improves regional security and offers an opportunity for more cooperation with Australia. Few people in the Indo-Pacific, even those who are concerned with strategic affairs, would know that the French Air and Space Force (Armee de l’Air et de l’Espace) has five bases in the region. (See the graphic.) The bases and the crews and aircraft on them operate surveillance missions and stand ready to help in disaster relief.AX Priorities for the air and space force in French overseas territories, such as those in the Indian and Pacific oceans, include protection of French territories, intervention during crisis and support to international coalitions, according to the Military Programming Act for 2024 to 2030. France has not just a persistent air presence in the Indo-Pacific but can reinforce it rapidly from Europe using its own bases and those of partners with which it trains in interoperability. In the Indian Ocean, the air and space force’s westernmost base is in Djibouti: Air Base 188 (Base aerienne 188, or BA 188). Then there are other bases in the United Arab Emirates (BA 104) and Reunion Island (BA 181). The three facilities, especially the first two, establish a deterrent presence focused on the Middle East, and they support operational continuity from Europe to the Indian Ocean. They also facilitate joint exercises, such as Garuda, undertaken with India, which enhance interoperability. In the Pacific Ocean, France’s air presence is anchored in New Caledonia (BA 186) and Tahiti (Detachement Air 190, or Air Detachment 190). These facilities can host Rafale fighters and A400M airlifters from Europe, which can be deployed to strengthen work with partners through exercises such as ARC21 with Japan and the United States. The bases at Reunion, New Caledonia and Tahiti host surveillance and transport aircraft and helicopters. These bases ensure a permanent air presence with aircraft and helicopters dedicated to search and rescue, maritime surveillance and disaster relief operations. With its bases, aircraft, and personnel, France is well positioned to respond alongside its international partners and contribute to peace in the Indo-Pacific.

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