IRIS is the French Institute for International and Strategic Affairs, which created and coordinates the Armament Industry European Research Group (ARES Group). As a high-level network of security and defense specialists across Europe, the ARES Group aims to provide a forum for the European armament community. They bring together top defense industrial policy specialists to encourage fresh strategic thinking, develop innovative policy proposals, and conduct studies for both public and private actors.

The ARES Group engages in various activities to fulfill its objectives. They publish a range of materials, including short-format opinion pieces, medium-format policy papers, and long-format reports, all of which are freely accessible on the group's website. Policy papers and reports are collaboratively written by multiple experts to provide a well-rounded perspective.

The group also organizes two annual seminars in Brussels and Paris. These seminars are supported by the materials produced by the ARES Group, allowing for informed discussions and insights into the defense industry. In summary, IRIS and the ARES Group play a crucial role in fostering collaboration, generating strategic ideas, and promoting innovative policies within the European armament community