Chad and France explore fresh security cooperation at Eurosatory

Strengthening bilateral defense ties in Paris

At the Eurosatory defense and security exhibition in Paris, Chad’s Minister of National Defense, Veterans, and War Victims, General Issakha Malloua Djamouss, held a strategic meeting with his French counterpart, Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin. This high-level exchange follows ongoing political discussions between Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The talks centered on deepening defense and security cooperation while upholding each nation’s strategic interests and sovereignty. Both sides emphasized a shared commitment to building a trust-based partnership capable of addressing evolving security challenges.

Air capabilities and regional stability

Key priorities discussed included operationalizing the recent joint declaration of intent signed by Chad and France. Mutual benefits emerged as a cornerstone of the partnership, particularly in enhancing the capabilities of the Chadian Armed Forces. Air force cooperation was highlighted as a critical area, with proposals for advanced pilot training, intelligence-sharing initiatives, and French technical support to modernize Chad’s aerial defense systems.

French defense officials have expressed interest in securing access to N’Djamena’s air base, enabling rapid deployment of aircraft for regional operations. A senior Chadian military officer confirmed that such cooperation would strengthen the country’s response to emerging security threats across the Sahel.

The Chadian government is actively seeking closer alignment with France, expressing dissatisfaction with alternative security arrangements offered by other international partners.