Malaysian Defence Minister and military officials visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle on March 2, 2023, coinciding with a joint air combat exercise with the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The visit aimed to strengthen defense ties between France and Malaysia, showcasing military cooperation and interoperability through collaborative training exercises. The engagements reflect a collective commitment to regional security and upholding international law in the Indo-Pacific.
On March 2, 2023, Malaysian Defence Minister Yang Berhormat Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, together with senior military officials, visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. They were greeted aboard by French Ambassador to Malaysia Axel Cruau, Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, and Captain Georges-Antoine Florentin. The delegation included key figures like General Datuk Hj Mohd Nizam bin Hj Jaafar, Chief of Defence Forces, and Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy.
The visit coincided with a joint air combat exercise featuring the carrier’s air wing and the Royal Malaysian Air Force, highlighting the collaborative defense efforts between France and Malaysia. Dato’ Seri Mohamed commented on being informed about the capabilities of the Charles de Gaulle, stating that this initiative aims to enhance defense ties in the region.
During the exercise off the eastern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, four French Rafales engaged with Malaysian aircraft, namely Su-30MKMs, F/A-18Ds, and Hawks. The Malaysian delegation observed aircraft launch and recovery operations on the carrier, which exemplified the cooperation between the two nations’ military forces.
The French Embassy emphasized the importance of such exercises for enhancing interoperability and military cooperation in the region, reinforcing France’s commitment to maintaining security in the Indo-Pacific. This exercise demonstrated France’s readiness to engage militarily with its partners to uphold international law and safeguard shared resources.
The Charles de Gaulle, following a visit to Subic Bay in the Philippines, engaged in joint patrols with the Philippine military. In January, the carrier’s destroyer Forbin participated in training exercises with the Royal Malaysian Navy, focusing on illicit maritime activities, which further illustrates the growing military collaboration between France and Malaysia.
The visit of Malaysian defense officials to the Charles de Gaulle underscores the strengthening of military cooperation between Malaysia and France. Joint exercises not only enhance operational interoperability but also demonstrate a commitment to regional security. Such diplomatic and military engagements reflect both nations’ dedication to preserving stability and addressing common challenges in the Indo-Pacific.
Original Source: www.navalnews.com
