In the current geopolitical context, its a little scary: the Army of the Ground brings out the big guns in downtown Lorient

No helicopters like usual, but a miniature village of the Army. On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the French army organized a recruitment operation in the city center of Lorient. At the end of Jules-Ferry Park, about thirty soldiers in camouflage took their place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. At some stands, they displayed authentic assault rifles like the Famas, weighted vests to put on, and camouflage suits.

The goal of this village in Lorient is to “move up a notch to introduce the Army, somewhat unknown in the Lorient area,” explained Major Guillaume, head of the Information and Recruitment Center for the Armed Forces (Cirfa) in Lorient.

Among the weapons displayed, the Caesar cannon attracted everyone’s attention in the city center of Lorient. (“Le Telegramme/Alan Le Cunff”)

“Génial”

Material regiment, maritime infantry, dog handling – In total, seven regiments and as many military branches were represented. In the showcase: a multi-role armored vehicle like the Griffon, a Caesar type cannon, and even a flight simulator accessible from age three. Enough to attract thousands of residents of Lorient throughout the day. Among them, Gaspard had his eyes fixed on the monumental cannon pointing towards the town hall. The eight-year-old boy had only one word on his lips: “great.” Even though his mother had a different opinion: “In the current geopolitical context, it’s a little scary to see this in the city center.”

In the flight simulator line, it was the opposite for Damien and his two sons. “I came to show them military vehicles that are rather rare. In the end, they are not interested at all, unlike me!”

For lack of seeing the traditional helicopter demonstration, the canine section gave demonstrations in front of a hundred spectators, on the esplanade of the Lorient City Hall. (“Le Telegramme/Alan Le Cunff”)

Recruitment Operation

In France, enrollment is possible from 17 and a half years old. So, this village also aims to reach “high school students, young people from UBS, and to some extent, middle school students,” explained Major Guillaume. “The target is mainly young people.”

In total, the Army represents 117 professions, from infantry combat to chefs, to human resources. A way to enhance experience, explains the military. “Today, a soldier is not just an executor. A young soldier who enlists without a diploma will come out with many training opportunities that can serve him in the private sector.” 2nd material regiment (Rmat) from Bruz, 3rd marine artillery regiment (Rima) from Vannes, canine section – Discussions and simulation exercises were provided by all the forces present. “This is how we recruit in all branches of the military,” assures the major.