2e REI: 2025 Exercise Solferino | French Foreign Legion Information

Between March 6 and 13, 2025, the French Foreign Legion’s 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment (2e REI) conducted Exercise Solferino, a large-scale military drill in the Corrèze region of central France.

Named after the historic 1859 Battle of Solferino in Italy, in which the regiment took part, the exercise aimed to enhance the 2e REI’s readiness for a variety of combat scenarios, with a particular focus on urban warfare and night operations. Around 600 legionnaires participated as part of the Dragon task force, supported by 100 military vehicles, including 43 advanced VBMR Griffon armored personnel carriers. This .

The exercise, demonstrating a strong emphasis on mobility, protection, and tactical coordination, unfolded in several phases. On March 6, troops deployed from La Courtine, a military camp in central France, marking the official start of the operations. On the night of March 9–10, intensive training took place in Uzerche, testing coordination in low-visibility conditions. From March 10 to 12, urban combat drills were carried out in Malemort and Brive-la-Gaillarde, critical for preparing soldiers for modern urban conflicts. The exercise concluded on March 13.

Solferino also served as a testing ground for new equipment and procedures, such as light tactical vehicles, quads, and even electric bikes for snipers, alongside the refinement of logistics and medical support systems.

This large-scale exercise coincided with French President Macron’s recent calls for European military rearmament amid rising global tensions, with France strengthening its defense posture. As Colonel Miailhes, 2e REI commander, stated: “Our motto is to be ready. The president expects us to be prepared for any mission, anytime.”

After four weeks of training at Camp La Courtine and in Corrèze, a ceremony was held at Brive City Hall, where seven legionnaires were presented with naturalization decrees.

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