France is projecting naval power across two key maritime theaters. With the Jeanne d’Arc 2025 mission, the French Navy is asserting its presence from the Indo-Pacific to Northern Europe in a context of growing global maritime tensions. This annual deployment involves over 600 sailors, including 160 French and international officer cadets, embarked aboard the amphibious helicopter carrier Dixmude and a La Fayette-class frigate.
From Training Cruise to Strategic Projection
Originally designed as a training mission for future naval officers, Jeanne d’Arc has evolved into a powerful tool of strategic presence and maritime diplomacy. Over several months, cadets take part in real-world operations including joint exercises, amphibious missions, bilateral cooperation, anti-piracy patrols, and humanitarian support. Far beyond basic training, the mission sends a strong message: France is ready to lead and engage wherever maritime stability is at stake.
Strategic Engagement in the Indo-Pacific
Jeanne d’Arc 2025 begins in the Indo-Pacific, a region where France plays a key role as a resident power. With multiple port calls and joint activities, the French Navy deepens regional cooperation and demonstrates its commitment to maritime security. In this contested region, France positions itself as a stabilizing force, a trusted partner, and a firm defender of freedom of navigation.
Turning North: NATO Interoperability in the Baltic
After its Indo-Pacific phase, the task group heads to Northern Europe for multinational NATO exercises in the Baltic Sea and North Sea. This European leg strengthens France’s role within the Alliance, particularly in a region facing growing tensions with eastern powers. It also offers officer cadets the opportunity to operate in complex environments and test their interoperability within NATO frameworks.
