Breaking News
SOFINS 2025: A Key Event for Special Forces with Groundbreaking Innovations.
The seventh edition of SOFINS, the biennial exhibition dedicated to special forces, will take place from April 1 to 3, 2025, at the Souge military camp in Gironde. Organized by the Cercle de l’Arbalète for the benefit of the Special Operations Command (COS), this event will bring together representatives of special forces from around sixty countries in a highly secure setting. Over three days, companies ranging from small enterprises to large industrial groups will present advanced technological solutions tailored to the specific needs of special operations.
SOFINS 2025 will bring together special forces from around sixty countries at the Souge military camp for a high-security exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technological solutions, hands-on equipment testing, and strategic discussions, followed by COMBATERRE, a dedicated event for the French Army focusing on future combat challenges (Picture source: SOFIN)
One of the distinctive features of SOFINS is the opportunity for visitors to test equipment and innovations in near-operational conditions. This edition will host 300 exhibitors across a 10,000 m² space, with a particular emphasis on French expertise and innovation. To enhance the immersive experience, three test areas will be set up: the first dedicated to live-fire tests and outdoor technology workshops, the second simulating an urban environment for combat solutions, and the third offering night operations scenarios and obstacle courses. Special attention will be given to next-generation equipment, including the presentation of the NH90FS, a helicopter specifically designed for special forces.
Specialized conferences will allow exhibitors to present their innovations to an informed audience, providing a platform for discussions on technological advancements and solutions adapted to special forces' needs. Additionally, the 2025 edition will introduce several key updates. An expanded outdoor area will facilitate exhibitor setups, while a mobile testing space will allow realistic mobility assessments. The SOFLAB 2025 Innovation Hub and SOFTECH SI will foster exchanges between startups and decision-makers. Moreover, reinforced cybersecurity measures, in collaboration with the DRSD, will ensure optimal data protection and secure communications.
The event organizers have also improved international delegation management with a new system designed to streamline interactions between exhibitors and representatives from 72 countries. The return of the static exhibition under a tent will optimize equipment displays. SOFLAB, an area reserved for emerging startups selected by the Cercle de l’Arbalète, will be a key feature of the exhibition, offering companies a dedicated morning to showcase their innovations to special forces and compete for prestigious awards in the SOFLAB competition.
Benoît de Saint-Sernin highlights SOFINS’ significance in an increasingly uncertain operational environment. The event has become a key gathering for allied delegations of France, providing a platform to anticipate challenges in ground combat, urban infiltration, cyber warfare, counter-bacteriological threats, and drone-based conflicts. Access to the exhibition is strictly by accreditation through the Cercle de l’Arbalète, with registrations available via the official website.
Following SOFINS, on April 4, 2025, the Souge camp will host the first edition of COMBATERRE, an event entirely dedicated to the Army. Under the leadership of General Bruno Baratz, Commander of Future Combat (CCF), COMBATERRE will bring together senior Army officers for a day of strategic reflection. General Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army (CEMAT), will convene a thousand senior military officials to address capability challenges for 2027 and 2040. The event will include a conference titled "The Aero-Ground Battlefield in 2040: Lessons from the Ukraine Conflict," analyzing strategic and technological transformations shaping modern warfare.
Nearly 200 exhibitors will participate across a 10,000 m² space, fostering exchanges between military personnel and industry representatives. The exhibition will also be presented to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Economic Trinôme, which brings together the IHEDN, the Armed Forces, and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A dedicated area will highlight regional expertise, with thirty stands reserved for local businesses. Benoît de Saint-Sernin stresses the importance of this initiative in strengthening ties between industry and the Army, pointing out that many companies may not realize their products align with military needs.
The previous edition of SOFINS welcomed 4,500 unique visitors and 305 exhibitors, with the participation of 63 foreign special forces delegations. More than 300 hours of on-site equipment testing took place, along with two special forces demonstrations and the awarding of three prizes in the SOFLAB competition. With an expanded scope and advanced innovations, the 2025 edition is set to be a key event for the sector and for special forces worldwide.