The French meso-system of armament (FMSA) continues to play a key role in the French innovation system. This paper describes the main institutions involved: the procurement agency (DGA), large contractors, and technological agencies, which contribute to defense innovation and production. It then addresses the role and effects of defense R&D on France’s technology policy and international competitiveness, and analyzes the major transformations of the relationship between FMSA and the governmental science and technology policy during the 1990s. JEL: O3, L22, L64, F43