France’s Ministry of the Armed Forces Launches CND, a New Pillar of Digital Defense

Effective September 1, 2025, France will have a new conductor at the helm of its defense digital policy. Created by a decree published this summer, the Defense Digital Commissariat (CND) will absorb three key entities: the General Directorate for Digital (DGNUM), the Interarmed Directorate for Infrastructure Networks (DIRISI), and the Defense Digital Agency (AND).

This merger, which will see the Artificial Intelligence Agency (AMIAD) join in 2026, is pitched as a direct response to current technological challenges. By centralizing expertise, the ministry aims to improve data governance, investment oversight, and the security of its information systems, whether deployed for on‑the‑ground operations or for administrative tasks.

€20 Billion for Digital Defense

To lead this strategic body, the choice fell to a sector veteran. Lieutenant General Erwan Rolland, 56, will take the helm of the CND. A Saint‑Cyr alum, he brings hands‑on experience from the field, having previously led DIRISI, one of the pillars of the forthcoming entity. He will be supported by Lionel Morin, a General Engineer of Armaments at the highest rank, appointed Deputy Commissioner.

This transformation sits within the framework of the Military Programming Law 2024‑2030, which earmarks €20 billion for digital capabilities. It guarantees the CND the resources needed to modernize the armed forces’ equipment and to strengthen France’s ability to act in cyberspace.

The new Commissariat does not cast a shadow over the Cyber Defense Command (COMCYBER). Their missions are complementary. While the CND handles strategy and infrastructure management, COMCYBER, under the authority of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, retains its operational duties, namely conducting cyber operations and protecting critical networks.

In practical terms, one builds and manages the tools, the other uses them to defend the state. This division of labor is intended to prevent overlaps and to optimize the overall effectiveness of France’s digital defense apparatus.