Outsourcing support to forces in external operations

The use of force support outsourcing is now necessary for external operations (OPEX). It allows to cope with the intensity of the commitments while reducing the constraints on the military forces and saving the potential of the equipment. Expenditure on outsourced services amounted to EUR 236 million in 2017 (EUR 862 million for the period 2014-2017). Operation Barkhane, in Mali and in neighbouring countries, consumes almost half of the outsourced expenditure because its transport needs, which the military’s own means cannot meet, are at the origin of many charter contracts, especially by air. The legal quality of air charter contracts has increased since 2014, but has not yet reached a satisfactory level, notably due to too rapid turnover of buyers in the theatre. The doctrine of the Military Staff on outsourcing has also advanced with the adoption of OPEX-specific provisions; however, it is not implemented when the number or quality of the service providers do not allow competition. Reducing the commercial supply of military aircraft is the main risk that threatens the smooth running of OPEXs; the Ministry of Armed Forces has yet to provide long-term solutions. This report is available [on the Court’s website](https://www.ccomptes.fr/fr/publications/lexternalisation-du-soutien-aux-forces-en-operations-exterieures). The published files correspond to the data used in the preparation of the report.