SHOM
Government AdministrationFrance201-500 Employees
SHOM is France’s national service for maritime and littoral geographic information, tracing its origins to the world’s first official hydrographic service established in 1720. As a public administrative establishment under the authority of the Ministry of the Armed Forces since 2007, it focuses on understanding and describing the marine environment and its interactions with the atmosphere, seabed, and coastal zones, with the aim of anticipating changes and disseminating relevant information. The organization operates across three core activities: national hydrography to support surface navigation in French waters and French-mapped zones; defense support through hydro-oceanographic expertise and operational readiness for the armed forces; and public-sea policy support by making its heritage data and expertise available to government authorities and maritime stakeholders. Based in France and serving a government-oriented mandate, SHOM positions itself within the government administration sector, combining scientific, navigational, and strategic assets to inform maritime planning and security. A recent development includes recognition at the 2025 Esri User Conference for its achievements, alongside ongoing collaboration with partners to expand its hydrographic and oceanographic capabilities.