America’s ‘oldest ally’ runs naval aviation drills to strengthen NATO, strike techniques

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F/A-18 Super Hornets, assigned to Carrier Air Wing One, and French Dassault Rafale M fighters fly over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman. Truman is deployed as part of an ongoing rotation of U.S. forces supporting maritime security operations in international waters around the globe. (U.S. Navy)

WASHINGTON ― U.S. Navy pilots from Carrier Air Wing One, placed aboard the aircraft carrier Harry S. Truman, are conducting integrated flight operations with French Naval Aviation aircraft this week.

Designed to increase readiness, demonstrate systems and mission interoperability, and strengthen NATO, the exercise tests pilots by practicing air warfare and strike techniques. Aircraft taking part in the exercise include the U.S. Navy’s F/A-18 Super Hornet and E-2D Hawkeye as well as France’s Dassault Rafale M fighters.

“France is our oldest ally and a vital partner in ensuring security and stability in the region and across the globe,” said Rear Adm. Gene Black, the commander of Carrier Strike Group 8. “The opportunity to integrate with French Naval Aviation helps us enhance our interoperability as we work to achieve common objectives.”

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During the exercise, flight operations were conducted over France and in French and international waters in the Bay of Biscay.

“When we operate together we’re stronger than just the sum of our parts, and this training continues our investment in that cooperation,” Black said.

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