French carrier joins NATO-led drills amid Russia concerns
- In Reports
- 11:31 AM, Apr 27, 2024
- Myind Staff
NATO initiated one of its largest naval deployments since Russia's invasion of Ukraine by deploying the French aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, under the alliance's command for the first time.
The carrier, along with its accompanying vessels, forming a carrier strike group, serves as the focal point of Neptune Strike, a series of drills aimed at enhancing NATO members' ability to collaborate effectively and deter potential adversaries.
The French nuclear-powered carrier commenced its mission in the Mediterranean Sea, in close proximity to its home port of Toulon. This marks a significant moment as the Charles de Gaulle is placed under NATO operational control for the first time, carrying symbolic weight as it bears the name of the former president who withdrew France from the alliance's U.S.-led command structure in 1966.
While France rejoined NATO in 2009, officials note an increased interest in NATO exercises and missions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This reflects a perception that a more assertive Moscow has heightened the importance of NATO for French security interests.
The French decision to place the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier under NATO command faced criticism from both the far left and far right in France, who argued that it signified a relinquishment of sovereign power.
However, French officials countered these critiques by asserting that such a move is a standard aspect of membership in a multinational military alliance. Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, the commander of the strike group, stated that this decision aligns with France's existing practice of having some land and air forces under NATO command, particularly to deter Russia in eastern Europe.
Rear Admiral Mallard emphasised the importance of the deployment for maintaining familiarity with potential allies in a crisis. The mission, involving around 20 vessels, includes carrier strike groups from Italy, Spain, and Turkey.
Activities will include long-range flights simulating support for troops in eastern Europe. Ambassadors to NATO observed the carrier ahead of the mission, witnessing grey Rafale fighter jets launching from the flight deck under clear skies.
The carrier welcomed ambassadors from NATO's 32 member countries on the eve of the mission. They observed as grey Rafale fighter jets were catapulted by steam from the flight deck against the backdrop of a pale blue sky.
NATO has conducted several editions of Neptune Strike in the past two years, describing it as "enhanced vigilance activity." Vice Admiral Thomas Ishee, commander of NATO’s Striking and Support Forces, highlighted the current iteration, which lasts until May 10, as one of the largest.
He emphasised its role in enhancing alliance cohesion and deterring adversaries by demonstrating NATO's capability and capacity to operate as a unified force.
While Neptune Strike isn't explicitly aimed at Russia, NATO's strategic concept identifies Moscow as a major threat. Russian President Putin's assurances haven't eased NATO's concerns, especially after the invasion of Ukraine. Vice Admiral Ishee stressed NATO's focus on deterring Russian aggression without being at war with Russia.
Image source: Reuters
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