In 1994, after the end of the division of Europe during the Cold War, France undertook a reappraisal of its strategy and force structure. This prepared the decision in 1996 to (i) move to all-professional armed forces, (ii) dismantle its surface-to-surface nuclear missiles and (iii) build up a substantial force projection capability, in keeping with the new strategic situation. Some fifteen years later, the world has radically changed. The post-Cold War era is over. Globalisation now structures international relations. A re-appraisal was required.