Changes in the international environment have resulted in the need for France to redefine its security strategy; defence policy makes a contribution to this, as do other public policies. The aim of this strategy, as developed in the 2008 White Paper, is to ward off risks or threats liable to harm the life of the nation.⁽¹⁾

Arising directly from this major document, the new Force Employment Concept (CEF)⁽²⁾ describes the military contribution to this national security strategy.

It defines at the outset the political and strategic framework within which the armed forces are called upon to operate. In particular it identifies the component elements of overall military strategy. It then describes conditions for military operations, greatly influenced by processes external to the armed forces, and in this context defines the foundations and principles that condition its success. Finally, it describes the types of engagement for which provision must be made, and the capabilities required.