| Forces Aérienne Stratégiques (FAS) Strategic Air Forces | |
|---|---|
| Active | 14 January 1964 - present |
| Branch | French Air and Space Force |
| Type | Major command |
| Role | Nuclear deterrence |
| Size | ~ 2000 personnel (2017) |
| Garrison/HQ | Vélizy – Villacoublay Air Base |
The Strategic Air Forces (FAS) (French: Commandement des Forces Aériennes Stratégiques (CFAS)) is a command of the French Air and Space Force. It was created on January 14, 1964, and directs France's nuclear bombardment force.
The headquarters was formerly at Taverny Air Base, but has now moved to Vélizy – Villacoublay Air Base.[citation needed]
Général de corps aérien Patrick Charaix is the current commander.[1] This is the equivalent of a lieutenant-general's position. He took command in 2012, after a year as the deputy commander. He took over from General Paul Fouilland, in command from 2007-2012.[2]