Paris Prepares for Unprecedented Security Measures as Olympics Approach

PARIS — With the Paris Olympics rapidly approaching, French President Emmanuel Macron and his government ministers have been actively engaging with the media to underscore France's comprehensive readiness to secure the Games. The overarching message from French officials is unequivocal: France is prepared to handle what is anticipated to be the largest and most intricate security operation in the nation's history.

Unprecedented Security Operation

The scale of the security operation for the Paris Olympics is set to be unprecedented, with a planned deployment of 45,000 police officers and gendarmes on the opening day alone. Following this, a daily contingent of 35,000 officers will be tasked with maintaining safety throughout the competition period. Simon Riondet, head of the Paris police’s elite Recherche et d’Intervention (BRI) unit, drew an analogy to athletes in emphasizing the importance of readiness. "That's what we're trying to do, be (ready) when we're going to be needed," Riondet told NBC News on Tuesday. This statement came on the heels of a high-intensity drill involving a simulated hostage rescue and terrorist neutralization on a bus. Riondet acknowledged the unique challenge faced by security personnel, who, unlike athletes with fixed schedules, must be prepared for potential threats without a defined timeline. "It’s really hard because, contrary to the athletes, we don’t have a date," he added.

Comprehensive Security Measures

Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin sought to reassure the public during an interview on France 2 Television, stating that no specific threats have been identified against the opening ceremony, which is scheduled to take place along the Seine River. To facilitate a coordinated response, a newly established intelligence analysis center will serve as a hub for integrating and analyzing information from various French law enforcement agencies.

Rob D’Amico, a retired FBI agent with experience from the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, advised French authorities to take all potential threats seriously, irrespective of how unlikely they may seem. Reflecting on past intelligence oversights, D’Amico noted, “I talk about this with 9/11; we never thought that was going to happen — so when we saw intel about it, it was dismissed.” He emphasized the critical need for vigilance, particularly with novel threats that may not fit conventional patterns.

Innovative Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony, set for Friday, will be unprecedented in its execution, as it will unfold outside the confines of a traditional stadium. The event will feature a flotilla of 90 boats transporting 10,500 athletes along a 3½-mile route on the Seine River, presenting a unique set of security challenges. Riondet expressed his enthusiasm for the event, recognizing both the additional complexities and the exceptional opportunity it offers for public engagement. “Of course, it’s an additional challenge,” he conceded. “We train frequently on the Seine, and I know that it’s going to be very, very nice. If you have the chance to be on a boat on the Seine, it’s quite tremendous, seeing all the buildings. The people will be able to see athletes in a way they’ve never experienced.”

Historical Context and Security Enhancements

The Olympics' arrival in Paris is especially poignant, occurring nearly nine years after the catastrophic terrorist attacks of November 2015, which resulted in 130 deaths in the deadliest peacetime attack in French history. Since then, French intelligence services have successfully thwarted around 50 terrorist plots, reflecting their enhanced counterterrorism capabilities.

For the opening ceremony, a formidable security presence will include 650 elite tactical units, such as snipers and hostage rescue specialists, supported by an additional 22,000 private security contractors. Access to designated control zones, including areas adjacent to Olympic venues and along the Seine, will involve stringent security checks, with potential wait times of 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. Police will rigorously verify credentials to ensure safety.

In preparation for the Games, over 12-foot-high wooden barriers have been erected around prominent tourist sites, including the Champs de Mars near the Eiffel Tower and the grounds of Les Invalides. The “Vigipirate” counterterrorism unit has also intensified its presence on the streets, collaborating with police and the Gendarmerie to bolster security.

Transportation and Surveillance

A comprehensive security perimeter will be established, restricting vehicle and pedestrian access to extensive areas of the city by the Seine, with closures affecting subway stations and bridges. French authorities have conducted thorough background checks on over one million individuals connected to the Games, including job applicants, volunteers, competitors, coaches, staff, journalists, and security contractors. This scrutiny has led to the identification of 4,350 individuals as potential security threats.

D’Amico emphasized the significance of the Olympics as a high-profile target due to global tensions and conflicts, stating, “Everyone is going to look at the Olympics to make a name for themselves, and that’s why it is one of the biggest targets out there.”

Drone and Airspace Security

Airspace security remains a top priority, with Prime Minister Gabriel Attal visiting a military airbase on Tuesday to review anti-drone measures. Attal reported that approximately six drones are intercepted near Olympic sites daily and confirmed that a no-fly zone will be enforced up to 93 miles outside central Paris on the opening night. The French military has prepared advanced systems designed to detect, jam, and intercept drones, enhancing aerial security. Additionally, underwater security will be reinforced with the deployment of 100 mine-clearing divers.

“We are preparing for something that isn’t fully anticipated,” Riondet said. “So, we’ve anticipated thousands of scenarios and are ready to take over on a scenario that wasn’t expected.”

Conclusion

As the Paris Olympics draw near, the extensive security measures being implemented highlight the critical importance of maintaining safety and preparedness in an era of heightened global security concerns. Through meticulous planning and a multi-faceted approach to security, French authorities are committed to ensuring that the Games proceed smoothly and securely, offering a memorable and safe experience for athletes and spectators alike.

David K. Li reported from Paris and Jean-Nicholas Fievet reported from London.