French Aircraft in Goa: The French Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle docked at Goa’s Mormugao port on January 4, marking a significant moment in Indo-French naval collaboration. Upon arrival, the French Carrier Strike Group was welcomed ceremonially by the Indian Navy band.
The group, which includes the carrier, a frigate, a submarine, and supply ships, is scheduled to engage in various activities aimed at strengthening ties and fostering interoperability with the Indian Navy and Air Force.
As per Deccanchronicle, during its visit, the Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group will participate in the 42nd edition of the Varuna exercise, a bilateral maritime exercise conducted annually by India and France. The exercise will focus on enhancing cooperation and preparing for multi-dimensional threats, including air, surface, and underwater challenges. The group will also collaborate with the Indian Air Force, featuring joint exercises involving Rafale Marine fighter jets and Indian fighter aircraft.
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The Charles de Gaulle, commissioned 25 years ago, is the flagship of the French Navy. Measuring 260 meters in length and displacing 42,000 tonnes, the carrier supports a crew of approximately 1,800 personnel and plays a pivotal role in projecting air power over sea and land. Its commanding officer described it as an essential tool for maintaining maritime superiority, operating in conjunction with escort ships in a battle group.
Indo-French Strategic Partnership Visit
The visit underscores the robust Indo-French strategic partnership, which dates back to 1998 and spans multiple military domains, including the Varuna (sea), Shakti (land), and Garuda (air) exercises. The French Embassy highlighted the nations’ shared responsibility as resident powers in the Indian Ocean to ensure maritime safety, tackle illegal activities, and address environmental concerns. France’s active role in the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) further reinforces its commitment to the region, having presided over the forum from 2021 to 2023.
According to The Print, Petty Officer Alex, a French Navy crew member with roots in Nepal and familial ties to the Indian Army, expressed pride in his service aboard the carrier. Having visited India several times previously, he shared his enthusiasm for contributing to the mission and experiencing Goa for the first time.
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This visit, part of Mission Clemenceau 25, highlights the growing synergy between Indian and French forces, emphasizing mutual trust, shared goals, and a commitment to ensuring stability and security in the Indian Ocean region.
