On March 2, Malaysian Defense Minister Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin and other officials visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, coinciding with a joint air combat exercise. The visit was aimed at strengthening defense relations with France and included observations of military operations, emphasizing the importance of interoperability and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
On March 2, a delegation of senior Malaysian defense officials, including Defense Minister Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. They were greeted by Axel Cruau, France’s Ambassador to Malaysia, and other high-ranking French Navy officials while participating in a joint air combat exercise with the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
During the visit, Dato’ Seri Mohamed and his delegation, which included Chief of Defence Forces General Datuk Hj Mohd Nizam bin Hj Jaafar and other senior military leaders, received a briefing on the capabilities of the Charles de Gaulle and its air wing. The Minister highlighted that this visit is part of efforts to enhance defense ties between France and Malaysia.
The joint air combat exercise involved four French Navy Rafales collaborating with Malaysian aircraft, including two Su-30MKMs, two F/A-18Ds, and two Hawks. The Malaysian officials observed launching and recovery operations aboard the Charles de Gaulle as part of the training activities.
The French Embassy to Malaysia stated that such exercises improve military interoperability and strengthen cooperative defense mechanisms. They also reflect France’s commitment to deploying military resources in the Indo-Pacific region, aimed at enforcing international law and protecting freedom of access to shared areas.
The recent activities of the Charles de Gaulle strike group included a historic port visit to Subic Bay in the Philippines and collaboration with the Philippine military in the South China Sea. Earlier in January, the carrier’s destroyer Forbin participated in Exercise LA PEROUSE 25 with the Royal Malaysian Navy, focusing on maritime security operations.
In summary, the visit by Malaysian defense officials to the Charles de Gaulle highlights the strengthening military cooperation between Malaysia and France. The ongoing joint exercises illustrate both nations’ commitment to enhancing interoperability and regional security in the Indo-Pacific. Such engagements foster defense ties by facilitating practical training and increasing the capabilities of both armed forces.
Original Source: www.navalnews.com