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The French White Paper on defence and national security

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THE STRATEGIC USE OF OUTER SPACE

Outer space has become as vital for the global economy and international security as the sea, the land and the air. France, like all its EU partners, opposes the transformation of space into a new battlefield. France does not intend to deploy weapons in space and will continue its diplomatic efforts in favour of the demilitarization of space.

Conversely, satellites with their various applications – communication, observation, eaves-dropping, early-warning, navigation, meteorology etc – have become a necessary component of all our strategic functions. Therefore, France will make a major effort in the field of space applications, in line with our national security strategy.

This ambition will involve :

- Capabilities : We will ensure continuity and modernisation of our observation and communication satellites. In 2008, we will begin work on the ultra-high resolution MUSIS optical satellite programme, with an operational capability in 2015. France will develop a significant capability in ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) satellites, after the success of our experimental satellites in this field : the CERES satellite system will be completed by the middle of the coming decade. A ballistic missile detection and early-warning capability will be in place by 2020, preceded by an interim satellite system during the coming decade. Particular efforts will be made in the area of space surveillance, involving very high civilian and military stakes, capitalising on close links with our European partners.

Overall, European cooperation will be encouraged in the field of space application, notably in the form of asset-sharing. (mutualisation).

- Funding : The allocation of defence funds for space applications will be doubled during the coming years, starting from the current annual level of 380 million Euro.

- Organisation : Given the importance of outer space for defence and national security, space related doctrine, operations and programmes will be placed under the responsibility of a specific and dedicated Joint Space Command , under the authority of the Chief of Defence Staff. The Air Force will manage our space assets under the lead of this new command.