There are many factors today that have an effect on the stability of our planet, and indications are that France and Europe will in the future, even more than now, suffer from changes concerning the equilibrium worldwide.

We are fully aware here and now of the decisive role of aerospace power. In this ever-changing environment, it will become the beating heart of the independence of assessment that underpins our freedom of political decision. It will confer upon us mastery of airspace, the pre-requisite for our liberty of action on the ground, at sea and in the skies. It will allow us to have the essential reactivity we need to defend our strategic interests and our power, ultimately in the defence of France and Europe, wherever it proves necessary.

The main challenge for our future is now the long-term ability to align our military capabilities with our ambitions in both European and worldwide contexts. It concerns strategic stakes of anticipation related to the future of our sovereignty and the degree of dependence on our alliances and—the bottom line—to the strategic independence of France and Europe in political, industrial and military affairs.

This 53rd International Paris Air Show, the Salon international de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace au Bourget, offers the occasion to consider issues surrounding the future of aerospace in general. With that in mind, I offer my gratitude to all involved in producing this special supplement to Revue Défense Nationale dedicated to air and space power, for their commitment and their ideas in support of our consideration of these matters.