The French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, along with its strike group, is beginning a mission in the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea. The vessel, which left its base in Toulon on January 27, will participate in a series of international NATO exercises, including Baltic Sentry and Steadfast Dart. These maneuvers aim to test the Alliance's operational readiness to defend the eastern flank in the face of growing instability in the region.

Historic Visit to Sweden

The aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle will dock in Malmö for the first time on February 25, symbolizing close cooperation with Sweden.

Series of Maneuvers in the Baltic

The French strike group will participate in Baltic Sentry and Steadfast Dart, practicing the defense of NATO's eastern flank.

Demonstration of Nuclear Power

Deploying a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the North Atlantic signals combat readiness in the context of Russia's aggressive policies.

The French Ministry of Defense announced extensive operations by the carrier group as part of the 'Lafayette 26' mission. The flagship of the French Navy, Charles de Gaulle, after completing national exercises Orion 26, is now heading north. On February 25, 2026, the unit is scheduled to dock at the port of Malmö, marking a historic event for the Swedish armed forces. The visit to Sweden will last several days, after which the strike group will join coalition operations in the Baltic Sea. The presence of such a powerful combat team in the Baltic is interpreted as a clear deterrent signal directed at Russia. As part of NATO operations, French units will participate in the Baltic Sentry and Steadfast Dart exercises. The maneuver scenarios involve rapid force deployment and strengthening the security of Baltic and Scandinavian countries. Military officials emphasize that integrating the French aircraft carrier with Alliance command systems is crucial for building interoperability. Since 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea, NATO countries have regularly enhanced readiness on the eastern flank, increasing the intensity of naval and land exercises in the Baltic Sea region. Further stages of the mission include participation in the Neptune Strike and Cold Response maneuvers, which traditionally test combat readiness in harsh Arctic conditions. The entire operation aims not only to demonstrate strength but also to practically rehearse defensive procedures in the new security environment, where Sweden and Finland are now full members of the Alliance. After completing operations in the north, the ship group is set to return to the Mediterranean Sea. Key date: February 25 – the aircraft carrier docks at Malmö port Bias note: French media highlight the importance of France's strategic autonomy while strongly engaging in NATO defense structures. Right-wing media emphasize the need to demonstrate strength towards Russia and the importance of allies strengthening the eastern flank.

Mentioned People

  • Donald Trump — Mentioned in the context of international instability and claims regarding Greenland.