HOP Blog
Inside Khimaira Strategy: An Interview with CEO Clement, Veteran SAS Operator
Nov
Khimaira Strategy is not just a company; it’s a movement born from a desire to serve and innovate.
In this interview, Clement, CEO of Khimaira and a veteran SAS operator, shares the story behind the company, its mission, and its challenges while striving to set a new benchmark in professional training and equipment development.
How Did Khimaira Begin?
Khimaira was born four years ago when I left active duty. I had a deep desire to create something impactful, something that could genuinely support those who needed it most.
The name “Khimaira” is a nod to the mythical creature, pronounced as in ancient Greek. This symbol holds personal significance, as it has been associated with my journey—from my first airborne unit at the age of 17 to my service in an SAS unit.
The chimera, in mythology, is a mystical being whose form changes depending on who describes it. This reflects my vision of Khimaira—not just as a company, but as a movement, an evolving state of mind.
“When I started the company, it was from my garage,” Clement shared during our conversation. “I wanted to create something that bridged gaps, something adaptable and impactful.”
Can You Share Your Military Background and How It Shaped Khimaira?
After completing my scientific studies, I enlisted in an airborne infantry regiment at the age of 17. Later, I passed the selection for the direct-action unit of the French Army Special Forces and joined a Hostage Rescue Team (HRT). I served there until the end of my military career, deploying across theaters in Africa, South America, and the Middle East.
In 2019, during a medical exam for a HAHO qualification, an unexpected eye condition was discovered. It cost me not only the qualification but also my existing certifications, forcing me to decide between staying in a non-deployable instructional role or leaving the military. At around 30 years old, I chose to move on and pursue a path where I could continue to create meaningful impact.
This decision ultimately led to the foundation of Khimaira, driven by a belief that everything related to preserving human life must adhere to the highest standards possible.
Clement elaborated: “Leaving was one of the hardest decisions. I knew I wasn’t ready to be non-deployable for the rest of my career. But I already had an idea of what I wanted to do. It was about using everything I’d learned to continue making a difference.”
How Would You Summarize Khimaira’s Core Mission?
At its heart, Khimaira is about problem-solving—offering effective, relevant, and proven solutions. We operate on two complementary dynamics: hardware and software.
- Hardware: We design, produce, and manufacture products, accessories, and equipment.
- Software: We develop training protocols and instructional methods in professional fields such as shooting, tactics, degraded-environment first aid, drone operation, and more.
Clement emphasized: “I didn’t want to capitalize on my military experience just for marketing. I use it as a filter to truly understand the needs of operators and professionals in the field.”
What Makes Khimaira Unique in Europe?
We are currently the only company in Europe structured with a synergy between a commercial department and a training department. While many training companies in Europe rely on a one-man-show model, Khimaira is built around a robust team.
This structure ensures resilience, redundancy, and scalability. Our expertise is not the result of one individual’s experience but a collective wealth of knowledge and skills.
“It’s about the team,” Clement said. “From day one, it wasn’t a one-man show. Everyone here shares the same vision, the same standards, and the same commitment to excellence.”
Who Is Your Target Audience, and How Do You Adapt to Different Markets?
In France, our training exclusively targets state professionals, as civilians are not allowed to own or carry firearms for personal defense. Our instruction focuses on the use of firearms as tools for preserving life—not for sport or competition.
However, in countries with different regulations, such as Switzerland, other parts of Europe, and the United States, we also work with civilians. Nonetheless, our core activity remains providing high-level expertise to special groups and specialized units.
How Do You Ensure Your Training Stays Relevant and Ahead of Emerging Threats?
Our partnerships with military and law enforcement units keep us closely connected to evolving threats. We dedicate significant resources to research and technical monitoring.
By regularly attending training courses worldwide, often as students ourselves, we continuously refine and innovate our offerings to remain at the forefront of our field.
Clement added: “We don’t just teach—we learn. Our team is constantly attending courses and collaborating with experts worldwide to stay ahead of the curve. It’s about creating bridges between knowledge and practice.”
What Challenges Does Khimaira Face, and How Do You Overcome Them?
One of our biggest local challenges is navigating restrictive regulations in France and Europe. On a broader level, our primary challenge is education—raising awareness about real-world problems and equipping professionals with the solutions they need.
Clement reflected: “It’s not about medals or accolades. It’s about preparing for the possibility of not coming home. That’s the reality we address every day.”
What Steps Are You Taking to Expand Khimaira’s Reach?
Our expansion has been steady and intentional. Initially, we operated only in France. However, we quickly began working across Europe and then globally.
Collaborations like our participation in the 2024 Ohio Range Day (ORD)—where we became the first non-American instructors at the event—illustrate our commitment to reciprocity and growth.
For example, last year, we organized a European tour for Rick and the AHT team, hosting them for two consecutive weeks. These partnerships strengthen our expertise and expand our global network.
“It’s about building partnerships,” Clement shared. “We don’t see ourselves as competitors to U.S. companies. Instead, we aim to create mutual growth and innovation through collaboration.”
How Does HOP Munitions Play Into Khimaira’s Mission?
HOP Munitions provides critical logistical support for our training operations in the United States. Their backing connects the different elements of their Vanguard program, with the ultimate goal of creating the most effective collective training structure possible.
“It’s an honor for Khimaira and our team to join the HOP International Vanguard and to represent HOP in Europe. We’re thrilled to be part of this journey and to contribute to HOP’s growth and influence in the region.” – Clement
“With HOP Munitions’ rapid expansion from coast to coast in America, we plan to be ready with global distribution starting with Europe in Q2 2025.” – Max (HOP Munitions)
Where Do You See Khimaira in the Next 5 to 10 Years?
In the coming years, I envision Khimaira as a global center of excellence in professional training, offering world-class instruction and staying at the cutting edge of innovation. With a strong team of highly trained instructors, we will continue to elevate our standards and remain a benchmark in our field.
Conclusion
Khimaira Strategy is more than a company; it’s a testament to the dedication and vision of its founder, Clement.
From its origins rooted in elite military experience to its evolution into a global hub for training and innovation, Khimaira represents the highest standards in preserving life and solving complex challenges.
With a commitment to adaptability, education, and excellence, Khimaira is poised to remain a leader in professional training and equipment development for years to come.
