The French Defence Debate examines assertions of consensus and continuity in, and surrounding, France''s defence since 1958, with primary reference to the political career of François Mitterrand. Mitterrand''s influence over defence and security, before and after his election to the presidency, is often underestimated. Nonetheless his impact was substantial, if ultimately for his lack of concern to preserve consensus and his reluctance to instigate necessary changes in France''s defence - despite the end of the Cold War, and the military deficiencies and limitations of national independence it exposed.