PARIS — France is increasing security measures in preparation for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics next month.

Military helicopters will patrol the city and protect airspace on the day of the ambitious 26 July ceremony, which is proving to be a serious security challenge.

Around 200 Olympic delegations will join the regatta of more than 80 boats down the Senne. They will make the journey along a six-kilometer route, which has become a major talking point for its unique open-air setup and its exposure to potential danger.

Paris police chief Laurent Nunez said the route would be inside a high-security zone described as an “anti-terrorism perimeter,” including the first row of buildings along the route.

Nunez said anyone who wants to enter the zone in the days before the ceremony and on the day itself will need to pre-register online and undergo a background check.

Tourists will not be given free access to watch the opening ceremony due to security concerns, the French government decided.

In April, security concerns had previously led French President Emmanuel Macron to say the ceremony could shift to the Stade de France if the threat level were too high. However, no alternatives are being prepared at this stage. — Euronews