Despite current geopolitical rivalries, Paris and Antananarivo are reaffirming their military cooperation. A new cohort of Malagasy officers is preparing to join prestigious French military schools for the 2026-2027 cycle, reinforcing the partnership between Paris and Antananarivo.
Defense cooperation between Antananarivo and Paris remains strong. For the 2026-2027 cycle, a new group of Malagasy officers is set to travel to France to attend the prestigious military academies of the Hexagon. Saint-Cyr Coëtquidan, the Naval School, the Air and Space School, and EMIA are on the agenda for these excellence programs. Other trainees will attend the International Superior War School (ESIG) in Yaoundé.
Geopolitical Climate
This commitment comes amid a tense regional geopolitical climate. As Russia intensifies its grip and multiplies diplomatic and security offensives on the island, backed by equipment deliveries and training proposals, Paris intends to preserve its historical influence. Continuing to host these military officers remains the most strategic lever for maintaining trust at the highest levels of the Malagasy general staff.
Bilateral Partnership
For Madagascar, the challenge is to have trained officers to face the multiple missions of the FAM: combating maritime insecurity, supporting internal security, and managing disasters. The departures of these officers, jointly selected by the Malagasy general staff and the French Defense Mission, are scheduled for the coming months. In any case, the bonds forged at Saint-Cyr or Salon-de-Provence transcend simple institutional agreements; they durably shape the vision of future Malagasy defense decision-makers. Despite current geopolitical rivalries, Paris and Antananarivo thus reaffirm that investment in human capital remains the cornerstone of their bilateral partnership.