Created in 1966, the EDCM is part of a legacy of detection and control units which were based in Germany at the end of the Second World War. After a stint in Metz, then in Évreux, alongside the Projectable Command and Control Air Wing (EAC2P), the EDCM, a projectable command and control (C2) specialist, finally found its place in 2019 on the Cinq-Mars-la-Pile site, close to the air base (BA) 705 of Tours.
Today, the EDCM is attached to the CDAOA Air Control Brigade (BACEA) and embodies an essential operational capability: quickly projecting an air command and control capability as close as possible to operations. In this year 2026, this unit celebrated its 60 years of existence. On this occasion, a ceremony chaired by the commander of the CDAOA, Air Corps General Marc Le Bouil, was held at the Château de Langeais, an emblematic site in Touraine. More than a heritage, the squadron today constitutes an essential link in the control of airspace and the conduct of air operations of the CDAOA.
A unique capability at the service of operations
Made up of 35 Airmen, the EDCM constitutes the only mobile operational unit in French air defense. Indeed, its operators are able to be deployed at very short notice, on the national territory as well as in external operations, in order to carry out airspace surveillance and control missions.
Relying in particular on the available means of the EAC2P (such as radars for example) the squadron implements command and control systems allowing it to provide a C2 capacity (Command and Control) reactive, as close as possible to operations. This ability to deploy rapidly gives EDCM essential operational value in a constantly evolving strategic environment. Through its mobility and responsiveness, the unit directly contributes to the resilience of the permanent air security posture (PPSA) and the freedom of action of French air operations.
Implanté at the Tours air base since 2019, the squadron benefits from the proximity of the Detection and Control Center (CDC) “Raki” of Cinq-Mars-la-Pile, responsible for regional military air control. This establishment thus allows the EDCM to carry out regular and demanding training, guaranteeing the high level of qualification and operational preparation of its personnel. Thanks to the expertise of its Airmen, the unit today contributes to the surveillance and security of the French skies.
/2024/11/16/luc-chagnon-1701076824682-67387885eacb8428340233.png "DIRECT. 2026 World Cup: the 48-team World Cup begins with Mexico-South Africa in the opening match at 9 p.m.")
