The French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle has completed its first military exercise in the Philippines, as France strengthens its presence in the Asia-Pacific amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. Speaking aboard the carrier in Subic Bay, north of Manila, French Ambassador Marie Fontanel emphasized by saying, “Given the rising tensions, it is all the more important to defend international law and freedom of navigation, whether at sea or in the air.”.
Strengthening naval cooperation amid regional tensions
On Friday, the French carrier strike group joined the Philippine Navy for a series of joint exercises aimed at bolstering regional security. This mission is part of France’s broader strategy to reaffirm its influence in the Indo-Pacific, where geopolitical rivalries between China and the United States continue to intensify.
The Philippines, facing frequent confrontations with China over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, is actively strengthening military partnerships with allied nations. China claims the majority of this strategic waterway, leading to ongoing tensions with Manila and other regional stakeholders.
Growing France-Philippines defense ties
In a significant step toward enhanced military cooperation, the Philippines announced in November the acquisition of 40 French fast patrol boats under a $440 million (approximately €420 million) defense agreement. This procurement underscores Manila’s commitment to boosting its maritime defense capabilities.
The Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group, comprising around 3,000 sailors, embarked on its months-long deployment in November. The mission spans operations in the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific, integrating regularly with foreign frigates and submarines as part of multinational defense initiatives.
