France Navy deploys 2nd Mistral class amphibious assault ship Dixmude to support Gaza.

According to information published by the French MoD on November 3, 2023, Sebastien Lecornu said that France will also deploy the Mistral class amphibious assault ship Dixmude to help civilians in the Gaza strip, in addition to the Tonnerre.
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French Mistral class amphibious assault ship Dixmude. (Picture source: French Navy)

The Dixmude is one of the Mistral-class amphibious assault ships constructed by France, which functions primarily as a helicopter carrier. This class is formally identified in French as "bâtiments de projection et de commandement" (BPC), indicating their dual role in force projection and command.

The ship's design allows for the transportation of 16 NH90 or Tiger helicopters, along with a substantial logistics capability, including space for four landing craft, up to 70 vehicles, 13 Leclerc tanks, or an entire Leclerc tank battalion. Additionally, the Dixmude can carry a complement of 450 soldiers.

Equipped with a hospital that contains 69 beds, the Dixmude can provide medical services on the move, reflecting its utility in various mission types. It is also structured to be part of the NATO Response Force and can work alongside United Nations or European Union forces in peace-keeping operations.

Propelled by two Rolls-Royce Mermaid azimuth thrusters, the Dixmude can achieve a maximum speed of 18.8 knots and has a significant operational range, which enables extended deployment capabilities. The French Navy utilizes three ships of the Mistral class: the Mistral, Tonnerre, and Dixmude, enhancing France's capabilities in terms of amphibious operations.

The Dixmude is equipped with sensor and radar systems, including the MRR3D-NG for air and surface surveillance. Its defensive arsenal comprises a variety of weapon systems for close-in defense, including missile systems, guns, and machine guns.

The aviation facilities on the Dixmude are substantial, with the capacity for up to six helicopter landing spots, facilitating a continuous cycle of air operations. This feature significantly augments the French Navy's capacity for rapid deployment from sea to shore.

The Mistral-class ships, such as the Tonnerre and the Dixmude, have a record of participation in diverse naval missions, from delivering humanitarian aid to participating in combat-related operations globally. Their design and capabilities make them a versatile component of the French naval fleet.

Context

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza has led to increased naval activity in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Red Sea, reflecting the heightened state of alert that has gripped the region. The United States has dispatched naval forces to the area, while Israel has taken measures to secure its maritime flank.

U.S. Naval Assets in Position

The USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, a key element of the U.S. naval force, has been deployed to the Eastern Mediterranean. This group, which includes the technologically advanced USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier along with a contingent of missile destroyers and cruisers, represents a significant U.S. maritime investment in the region. The strike group's mission encompasses intelligence gathering and potential rapid response to evolving situations, including the evacuation of U.S. citizens if necessary.

Additionally, the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group has been repositioned to offer support. This group, comprising the USS Bataan, USS Carter Hall, and USS Mesa Verde, along with over 4,000 personnel, is equipped to conduct evacuation operations and provide humanitarian assistance.