A French Navy E-2C Hawkeye airborne control aircraft played a key role in NATO’s Exercise Neptune Strike 24-1, demonstrating the alliance’s collective defense capabilities.
Photo: NATO
On Apr. 30, the E-2C Hawkeye launched from the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea. The aircraft participated in a mission supporting NATO’s Air Shielding mission, bolstering deterrence and defense posture along the alliance’s eastern flank.
To extend its operational time for the exercise, the E-2C made a refueling stop at Borcea Air Base, Romania, showcasing the concept of Agile Combat Employment. Romanian ground crews facilitated the refueling, highlighting the importance of interoperability between allied forces.
This mission marked a significant first for the Charles de Gaulle, as it operated under NATO command during Neptune Strike 24-1.
Exercise Neptune Strike 24-1:
This large-scale exercise serves as a training platform for NATO to integrate and utilize high-end maritime strike capabilities from various member nations. By successfully deploying and coordinating these assets, NATO strengthens its ability to deter potential threats in the region. Notably, the exercise goes beyond training, showcasing NATO’s continued commitment to ongoing missions like Air Policing, which ensures the security of alliance airspace.
The participation of the French E-2C Hawkeye and the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in Neptune Strike 24-1 signifies NATO’s ability to leverage combined multi-domain operations and highlights the interoperability and collaborative spirit among member states.
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