Young Recruits train at Orange Base ahead of France’s new national service

Young Air and Space Force recruits are undergoing intensive training at the Orange military base in southern France, one of the first locations designated for France’s upcoming voluntary national service programme set to begin in September 2026.

The training includes military drills, hand-to-hand combat, shooting exercises, team-building activities and night operations designed to develop group cohesion. By bringing young participants into direct contact with the Air and Space Force, authorities intend to strengthen national resilience and deepen public understanding of military roles and responsibilities.