PDSF2026: Paris Defence and Strategy Forum Third Edition

An international event of major significance, the Paris Defence and Strategy Forum, organised by the Defence Academy of the École militaire (ACADEM), pursues has a clear ambition: to enable French and European strategic thinking to contribute effectively to the broader debate on the major issues of security and defence.

The PDSF is part of the tradition of major international conferences dedicated to defence and security. By giving ample space to forward-looking debates and cross-disciplinary dialogue, the organisation’s programme explores the challenges and implications of the return of war to Europe, strategic and geopolitical developments, issues related to information and influence, and the major technological and societal transitions. As in previous editions, participants will address topics such as nuclear deterrence, the respective roles of NATO and the EU, emerging geopolitical, capability-related, industrial and technological issues, as well as ethical considerations and human resources.

Over three days, from 24 to 26 March 2026, French and international experts—civilian and military—will share their analyses and solutions through roundtables, keynote talks, workshops and strategic wargame simulations.

After two years focused on the same thematic approach, PDSF 2026 introduces a renewed thematic approach centred on: Sovereignties, Alliances and Partnerships. This focus reflects the intent to examine the profound transformations of our strategic environment from a broader perspective, incorporating new forms of cooperation, the challenges of industrial autonomy, and European resilience.