On December 9, 2021, helicopter cross-decks, a formation navigation sequence and the establishment of tactical data links allowing the exchange of tactical information, were carried out between the French and Greek frigates.
The ships then joined forces in an anti-air warfare (AAW) exercise against two F-4 and two F-16 fighters of the Hellenic Air Force, two other F-16 fighters ensuring an air defense mission in profit of the maritime force.
Strategic Partnership
This training is part of the strategic partnership recently signed between France and Greece. It follows numerous exercises carried out jointly in 2021 and 2020, including the one conducted a month earlier by Auvergne with the Greek frigate Themistokles.
Signed on September 28, 2021, the strategic partnership agreement between France and Greece aims to consolidate and sustainably structure defense cooperation between the two countries. It also contributes to strengthening Europe’s strategic autonomy and sovereignty, in particular by ensuring respect for international law, including the law of the sea.
Finally, it takes the form of frequent high-level meetings and cooperation. reinforced bilateral military as well as through joint capability projects.
Having left Toulon on November 2, the FREMM Auvergne is currently deployed in the Mediterranean. The vessel and its NH90 NFH Caïman helicopter are currently heading for the eastern Mediterranean where, as part of Operation Chammal to fight against Daesh, it will ensure the presence of French vessels in a strategic area where the security challenges for France, Europe and the United States are numerous.
