Facing the uncertainties resulting from global strategic changes, the White Paper on defence and national security demands a proactive and responsive approach. ‘France’s ambition is not to suffer the effects of uncertainty but to react, to think ahead.’ It is driven by a need to modernise maritime assets, at the same time continuing to undertake multiple roles in response to the new challenges presented by globalisation. Refocusing the Navy on its combat missions, the White Paper reasserts the importance given to its maritime security operations.