Paris: Rising tensions over Greenland have prompted European nations to show a united front in response to repeated threats by U.S. President Donald Trump. In a strategic move, France has deployed its only nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, to the North Atlantic near Greenland. The carrier is equipped with Rafale fighter jets and a full complement of naval escort and support vessels.
French President Emmanuel Macron is also scheduled to meet leaders from Denmark and Greenland in Paris to reaffirm European solidarity and support for the sovereignty and regional unity of Greenland amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Deployment Details
While the French Ministry of Defence has not disclosed the exact location, sources cited by AFP report that the carrier is moving toward the North Atlantic, where it will participate in the Naval Air Group Orion 26 military exercises alongside regional partners. The carrier strike group includes defense frigates, supply ships, and an attack submarine.
Strategic Context
The deployment comes amid escalating geopolitical concerns after President Trump threatened to annex Greenland and impose tariffs on European countries opposing the move. Although Trump has temporarily stepped back from military threats, the U.S. maintains strategic interest in the island.
Charles de Gaulle Aircraft Carrier Capabilities
Commissioned in 2001, the Charles de Gaulle is France’s only aircraft carrier and one of the few in the world with catapult and arrestor wire systems, capable of launching and recovering a wide range of fixed-wing aircraft. It can carry up to 40 aircraft, including Rafale Marine jets, E-24 Hawkeye EW planes, and NH90 helicopters, giving France a formidable maritime strike and air power projection capability.
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