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In
a move that demonstrates the interoperability and partnership between
the naval forces of the U.S. and France, the French Navy is leading
carrier-based naval strike operations for Operation Inherent Resolve
(OIR) - the fight to degrade and ultimately destroy the ISIL terrorist
organization.
French Rear Adm. Rene-Jean Crignola, aboard Charles de Gaulle, assumed
command of CTF 50 Dec. 7 after entering the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations
(AOO). This marks the first time the French Navy has served as commander
of a U.S. task force in this region. CTF 50 plans and conducts coalition
strike operations in the Middle East and reports directly to Commander
U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.
The carrier and embarked air wing, along with the other ships in her
battle group, will support operations over Iraq and Syria. She will
also provide a range of flexible and adaptable capabilities to perform
theater security cooperation efforts and maritime security operations
aimed at increasing the French Navy's interoperability with allies in
the region.
The battle group left its homeport of Toulon, France, Nov. 18.
Escorting Charles de Gaulle are the French air defense destroyer Chevalier
Paul (D621); the French anti-submarine frigate La Motte-Picquet (D645);
the Belgian anti-submarine frigate Leopold Ier (F930); the German anti-submarine
frigate Augsburg (F213); the French command and supply ship Marne (A630);
the Royal Navy air defense destroyer HMS Defender (D36) |
The French
Navy nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. Picture:
©Marine Nationale