On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Pope Leon XIV will be on an official visit to Monaco. His visit poses a logistical challenge for the Principality. Thousands of visitors are expected, and an exceptional security device will be deployed, with significant reinforcements from France, especially in the air. Let’s take a closer look.
This will be the first time a reigning pope visits the Rock. Saturday, March 28, 2026, Pope Leon XIV will be on an official visit to Monaco. This welcome signifies a logistical challenge for the Principality as thousands of visitors, whether faithful or just curious, are expected.
Although Monaco is accustomed to hosting major events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix, this visit requires even more organization.
As one of the most protected men on the planet, the Pope will have an extensive security detail, like on all his visits. The Principality had only six weeks to put this security plan in place.
All of Monaco’s security forces will be mobilized: police, public security agents, firefighters, and the Prince’s carabiniers. Additionally, there will be external contributions, notably from France.
Monaco lacks sufficient military resources to ensure the security of such a sensitive visit independently. French security forces, specialists in demining, and elite police and army units have been deployed. French reinforcements will play a crucial role, especially in the air.
The French Air and Space Force will deploy an aerial protection “bubble,” coordinated with Monegasque authorities, to secure the airspace around Monaco during the visit and prevent any aerial intrusion.
Significant resources will be mobilized, including an E-3F AWACS radar aircraft and a Rafale fighter jet for deterrence purposes.
In a statement, the French Air and Space Force indicated that vigilance against drones would be reinforced as they pose a significant security threat due to their discretion and versatility.
To prevent intrusions, an airborne device includes a Fennec helicopter that can fly slowly above sensitive areas to visually locate and disrupt drones.
Two French elite marksmen will board with NEROD-RF rifles, anti-drone jammers that can interrupt the communication between the device and its pilot.
This aerial system was deployed during Pope Francis’ visit to Marseille in September 2023. French private security agents in Monaco will also be mobilized to ensure the Pope’s safety.
The pontiff will arrive by helicopter directly from the Vatican and land precisely at 9 am at Monaco’s heliport by the seaside. Throughout his visit, he will be accompanied by his close guard, the Pontifical Swiss Guard.
