In a clear demonstration of strength and commitment to regional stability, France is deploying a formidable carrier strike group to the Indo-Pacific. This move comes shortly after the return of the frigate Bretagne from a seven-month deployment to the same region, signaling France's increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific.
Led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, the strike group will include an impressive array of warships, submarines, and logistical support vessels. The deployment, dubbed Clemenceau 25, aims to send a strong message to China about France's naval capabilities and its commitment to working with allies and partners to counter Beijing's growing influence.
The Charles de Gaulle strike group is expected to participate in three major military exercises. Two of these exercises, Varuna and La Perouse, will be conducted with the Indian Navy. Varuna is an annual bilateral exercise held in the Western Indian Ocean Region, while La Perouse is a biennial multinational exercise involving navies from India, Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, Canada, Malaysia, the UK, and the US. The third exercise, Pacific Steller, will see the French carrier strike group join forces with navies from the UK, US, Japan, and Canada in the waters near Guam.
This deployment also marks a historic occasion for France, with the Charles de Gaulle expected to make its first-ever port calls to Japan and the Philippines. Both nations have faced increasing pressure from China in recent years, and the French presence is seen as a show of support for these key regional partners.
The composition of the French carrier strike group underscores its significant capabilities. In addition to the Charles de Gaulle, it will include a Horizon-type air defence destroyer, an Aquitaine-class frigate, a nuclear-powered attack submarine, and a range of support vessels. The air wing will consist of 24 Rafale Marine fighter jets, two E-2C Hawkeye AEW aircraft, and four helicopters. With approximately 3,000 personnel on board, the strike group represents a potent force projection capability.
While the primary focus of the deployment is the Indo-Pacific, the strike group will also transit through the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, regions that have experienced heightened tensions due to ongoing conflicts. France has been actively involved in countering Iranian aggression in these areas, often working alongside US and British forces.
This deployment highlights France's growing role as a major player in the Indo-Pacific. As China continues its assertive actions in the region, France is stepping up its engagement, demonstrating its commitment to upholding a rules-based international order and supporting its allies and partners.
