NATO launched one of its largest naval deployments since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle joining drills under NATO command for the first time. The carrier and its accompanying vessels are part of Neptune Strike, a series of exercises aimed at enhancing cooperation among NATO members and deterring potential threats.
The decision to place the Charles de Gaulle under NATO operational control is significant, especially since the warship is named after a former French president who withdrew France from the alliance’s command structure in 1966. France rejoined NATO in 2009, but the recent move to put the carrier under NATO command has drawn criticism from both the far left and far right in France.
Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, the commander of the strike group, emphasized the importance of the deployment in maintaining a strong chain of command and fostering collaboration among NATO allies. The mission will involve around 20 vessels, including carrier strike groups from Italy, Spain, and Turkey, conducting exercises to simulate long-range strikes in support of troops in eastern Europe.
While NATO officials have not explicitly stated that Neptune Strike is directed at Russia, the strategic concept of the alliance identifies Moscow as a significant security threat. U.S. Vice Admiral Thomas Ishee highlighted the importance of the drills in enhancing deterrence capabilities and demonstrating the cohesion of NATO forces in the face of potential adversaries.
The deployment of the French carrier under NATO command underscores the alliance’s commitment to collective defense and security in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.