Trafficking Networks in the Sahel: The Role of Chadian Militias in the Conflict Economy 

Amanda B. Kadlec analyses the role of Chadian militias in trafficking networks operating across the Sahel, particularly those involving gold, weapons and fuel. These activities mainly connect Chad, Libya and Sudan and enable armed groups to finance their operations. The article shows that these trafficking networks have become a genuine war economy that extends beyond national borders and contributes to maintaining regional instability.

 

South Korean Submarines: An Opportunity for France 

Florian Galleri examines South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines. Difficulties for the United States in supplying the necessary nuclear fuel could create an opportunity for France, which has extensive expertise in naval nuclear technology. Paris could therefore offer Seoul industrial and technological cooperation while strengthening its strategic partnership with South Korea in the Indo-Pacific.

​

China’s Footprint Abroad 

Hugo Tierny’s analysis shows how Beijing is continuing to expand its global presence by combining military, economic, security and administrative instruments. Taiwan remains the main focus, with an increase in Chinese patrols and operations below the threshold of open conflict. China is simultaneously strengthening port infrastructure and security partnerships. The objective is to consolidate its influence and progressively shape a strategic environment favourable to its interests.

​

Convince to Win: France and the Development of an Information Warfare Doctrine 

Laurent Bansept examines the growing importance of information warfare in contemporary conflicts. France’s experiences in the Middle East, the Sahel and its confrontation with Russia have encouraged it to consider influence as a genuine strategic issue. France is gradually developing a doctrine designed to detect, counter and conduct information operations more effectively. The emergence of generative artificial intelligence makes this adaptation even more urgent.

​

Canada: A Return to Its European Roots?

Canada is seeking to strengthen its relations with Europe amid tensions and continued dependence on the United States. The rapprochement focuses particularly on defence, critical minerals, energy and trade. Europe therefore represents a partner that could help Ottawa diversify its strategic relationships. This could lead to closer cooperation between Canada and the European Union, while not challenging Canada’s fundamental ties with Washington.

 

Cybercrime in Central Africa: Typology, Experiences and Government Responses

Philippe Awono examines the growth of cybercrime in Central Africa and the diversification of its methods. The expansion of digital technologies creates new opportunities for cybercriminals, whose profiles and targets are becoming increasingly diverse. Governments are beginning to strengthen their cybersecurity policies, but these remain insufficiently adapted to the criminal dimension of the threat. The key challenge is therefore to better integrate cybersecurity with the fight against digital crime.

​

Canada’s Climate Security Needs More Than Military Spending 

The authors argue that increasing Canadian military spending is not enough to address the new security challenges created by climate change. Natural disasters, infrastructure vulnerabilities, communications disruptions and developments in the Arctic create a “middle space” that is difficult to classify as either civil protection or defence. They therefore advocate an approach involving local communities, Indigenous peoples and civilian actors. National resilience must consequently rely on stronger civilian capabilities as well as military power.

 

Canada Joins the Global Combat Air Programme to Develop a 6th-Generation Fighter 

In July 2026, Canada became the first observer country in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), led by the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan to develop a sixth-generation air combat system. Participation could give Ottawa access to advanced technologies and new opportunities for its defence industry. However, the authors stress that observer status remains limited. Canada will need to define its contribution and ambitions if it wants to become a full partner in the programme.

​

Golden Dome: A Hollow Shield 

This episode of Le Collimateur examines the American “Golden Dome” project, designed to create an enhanced missile-defence system around the United States. The speakers question some of the project’s technological promises and compare it with previous American missile-defence initiatives as well as the Israeli model. The programme’s limitations and its potential strategic consequences are also examined.

​

Ukraine: A Turbulent Summer in Review [Zone d’opérations #23] 

Alexandre Jubelin and Joseph Henrotin review the war in Ukraine during the summer of 2026. They examine developments along the front as well as Russian and Ukrainian strikes at medium and long range. The episode also considers their military effectiveness and their impact on the conduct of the war. Finally, Ukraine’s political situation and government reshuffle are discussed as factors that could influence the continuation of the conflict.