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SITM 2025: Strategic First Edition Addressing the Challenges of High-Altitude Warfare.
The International Summit of Mountain Troops (SITM) held its first edition in Grenoble on February 12-13, 2025, bringing together over 1,200 professionals from 28 countries, including 40 high-ranking defense, internal security, and civil authorities, as well as 22 official delegations. This strategic event highlighted the necessary advancements in military operations in mountainous and extreme environments, addressing the growing geopolitical tensions and the increasing demand for specialized equipment.
With 86 exhibitors, high-level demonstrations, and conferences, SITM 2025 has established itself as a key event in the discussion on high-altitude operations (Picture source: Army Recognition)
During the event, we conducted interviews with key industry stakeholders, including Trigano, Thales, and Charles Beaudouin, CEO of COGES and organizer of the summit.
Trigano: A Military Yurt Designed for Operational Efficiency
For units operating in mountainous environments, having a reliable and quickly deployable shelter is essential. Trigano presented its 12m² military yurt, designed to meet the needs of forces operating in high-altitude and extreme conditions. Featuring a 6060-T66 aluminum structure, an adjustable central mast, and eight lateral poles, it ensures stability while being assembled in just 10 minutes.
Its 530 g/m² IR M2 polycotton fabric enhances durability and field concealment, while optional integrated heating and a high-performance ventilation system improve occupant comfort. Designed to accommodate up to ten personnel, it provides insulation and modularity, key aspects for operations in cold and rugged terrains.
Thales: XTRAIM, Nellie, and BONIE HP, Advanced Night Vision Solutions
Night operations and challenging environments require high-performance optronics to ensure tactical superiority. Thales presented three key systems at SITM 2025: XTRAIM, Nellie, and BONIE HP, addressing the needs of forces deployed in mountainous and extreme environments.
The XTRAIM weapon sight combines a red-dot sight with thermal imaging in a compact and lightweight design. It provides day and night engagement capabilities, allowing soldiers to detect and engage targets in low-light and obscured environments.
The Nellie night vision goggles (NVGs) are designed for vehicle operation and close-quarters combat. With a 47° field of view and a weight of less than 460 g, they offer high-resolution vision while ensuring comfort and adaptability to changing field conditions.
The BONIE HP NVGs are high-performance night vision goggles developed for special forces operating in land, sea, and air environments. Designed at Thales’ Saint-Héand optronics center, they have been in use since 2018 by French special forces units. Their ergonomic design and enhanced low-light visibility provide a significant advantage for commandos operating in complex environments.
With these advanced technologies, Thales continues to deliver solutions adapted to modern battlefield requirements, ensuring optimal operational capabilities for military personnel.
Charles Beaudouin: "SITM, an Event Aligned with Geopolitical Realities"
With rising tensions in mountainous and Arctic regions, the first SITM edition is part of a broader discussion on the needs of European and international armed forces. Charles Beaudouin, retired Major General and CEO of COGES, emphasized the strategic importance of this event as a platform for military, industry, and security experts to discuss altitude warfare challenges.
According to Charles Beaudouin, the current geopolitical context requires a swift adaptation to the challenges of mountain and cold-weather operations, impacting both European and international forces. He emphasized that the SITM provides a platform for experts, manufacturers, and military personnel to exchange ideas and develop solutions tailored to these demanding environments.
A Successful First Edition for SITM
With 86 exhibitors, high-level demonstrations, and conferences, SITM 2025 has established itself as a key event in the discussion on high-altitude operations. Innovations such as the Trigano military yurt, Thales' night vision solutions, and COGES’ commitment to sustaining this event have highlighted the strategic and technological challenges for forces engaged in mountain operations. The next edition is scheduled for 2027.