The historic site of Versailles-Satory, known for its experiments since 1897, continues its focus on innovation with the inauguration of its new test tracks. These facilities, owned by the Ministry of Armed Forces, are more compact than their predecessors and will accommodate testing of military vehicles and armored vehicles, as well as technological innovations for autonomous mobility.
The multi-kilometer test ring features various modules for testing vehicles at high and low speeds on diverse terrains. Guillaume SANTONI, Zone Defense and Security Chief of Staff for Paris and commander of the Île-de-France base, highlighted the strategic importance of these new facilities for the armed forces and the nation.
The Department of Yvelines has been actively supporting the development of the Satory plateau for over a decade, investing €140 million in research, innovation, mobility, and higher education. These funds contribute to the development of MobiLAB, the VEDECOM institute, and the Mines Paris-PSL campus, fostering a dynamic industrial, academic, and military ecosystem.
The Versailles-Satory district is undergoing transformation with development projects including 200,000 m² of economic activities, 4,000 housing units, shops, services, and the future Line 18 station. Pierre BÉDIER, President of the Department of Yvelines, expressed satisfaction with the success of this reference hub.
The Satory Tech committee, established in 2025 and driven by the Department alongside Arquus and GICAT, aims to strengthen the Defense and Security sector. It coordinates industrial players, researchers, and military actors to promote research, development, and training, particularly in dual-use technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence.
