The French army has conducted close combat training sessions for soldiers stationed in Paris ahead of the Olympic Games, following recent knife attacks on security forces in the capital. The session involved infantry forces practicing close contact attacks, including punching, kicking, using batons, and dummy rifles to neutralize potential threats. The army maintains that these training sessions are regular refresher courses that soldiers undergo several times a month, and are not a direct response to recent violent incidents involving patrols.
The recent knife attacks, including one on a French soldier near the Gare de l’Est train station and another on a police officer in the Champs-Élysées neighborhood, have heightened security concerns in Paris ahead of the Summer Games. The French army emphasizes that soldiers are already well-prepared to tackle such threats due to their training and high alertness. Captain Thomas stated that they do not need to change their procedures, as they already consider the threat of knife attacks in their security measures.
The Sentinelle force, which consists of thousands of troops deployed to guard prominent French sites following terrorist attacks in 2015, has been targeted in the past. Paris is currently deploying around 30,000 police officers each day for the Olympics, with a peak of 45,000 for the opening ceremony. The military, including about 18,000 members, is also playing a significant role in ensuring security for the Summer Games. They are stationed in a large camp on the outskirts of the capital and are prepared to intervene in case of a terrorist threat during the Olympic period.
The goal of the military during the Olympics is to support the Interior Security Forces, including police, gendarmes, and firefighters who are on the frontline of securing the event. The military acts as a backup in case of a terrorist threat and focuses on anti-terrorism efforts. The training sessions for soldiers stationed in Paris are designed to enhance their capabilities to deal with various threats, including close combat situations. The sessions include practicing different techniques to neutralize a would-be assailant in different scenarios.
The French army remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Olympic Games in Paris, with a focus on preventing and responding to potential threats. The soldiers participating in the training sessions are well-equipped and trained to handle various security challenges, including close combat and knife attacks. The collaboration between the military and the Interior Security Forces highlights the comprehensive approach to securing the Summer Games and safeguarding both participants and spectators.
Overall, the recent close combat training sessions for soldiers stationed in Paris reflect the proactive measures taken by the French army to enhance security ahead of the Olympic Games. The army’s readiness to respond to potential threats, including knife attacks, demonstrates their commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for the event. As Paris prepares to host the Summer Games, the collaboration between the military and other security forces underscores the comprehensive approach to protecting the city and its residents during this high-profile international event.
