On March 2, Malaysian Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled led a delegation to the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle amidst a joint air combat exercise with the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The visit highlighted efforts to strengthen bilateral defense ties. Engagements included observing aircraft operations and emphasizing military cooperation and regional security.
On March 2, 2023, Malaysia’s Defence Minister Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, accompanied by senior military officials, visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. The delegation was welcomed by Axel Cruau, the French Ambassador to Malaysia, Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, commander of the French Carrier Strike Group, and Captain Georges-Antoine Florentin, commander of the carrier.
During the visit, Dato’ Seri Mohamed received a briefing on the capabilities of the Charles de Gaulle and its air wing from Rear Admiral Mallard. He noted that this visit was part of efforts to enhance bilateral defense ties, particularly between France and Malaysia.
Simultaneously, a joint air combat exercise was conducted between the French Navy and the Royal Malaysian Air Force off the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This exercise involved four French Navy Rafales engaging in operations with Malaysian aircraft, including Su-30MKMs and F/A-18Ds.
The French Embassy in Malaysia highlighted that such exercises bolster military cooperation and interoperability. It emphasizes France’s commitment to regularly deploying military resources in the Indo-Pacific region to uphold international law and ensure freedom of access to shared territories.
Following a port visit in Subic Bay, Philippines, the Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group had previously conducted joint patrols in the South China Sea alongside the Philippine military. Earlier in January, the destroyer Forbin from the group participated in Exercise LA PEROUSE 25, focusing on maritime security and illegal activities detection alongside the Royal Malaysian Navy.
The visit of Malaysian defense officials to the French carrier Charles de Gaulle underscores the strengthening defense relations between Malaysia and France. The joint exercises highlight a commitment to enhancing military cooperation and operational interoperability in the region, reflecting a strategic partnership aimed at ensuring maritime security and upholding international laws.
Original Source: www.navalnews.com
