The French Navy aircraft carrier ‘Charles de Gaulle’ (R91) left the port of Toulon today, beginning the ‘Anthares‘ mission.
The Combat Strike Group of the Charles de Gaulle consists not only of French units but also of allied ships (Greece, Italy and the USA are participating). These include also the Italian Navy frigate ‘Virginio Fasan’ (F591).
The Anthares mission has a dual purpose, to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank during the period of crisis triggered by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and to contribute to the Chammal mission, aimed at striking the remnants of the Islamic State between Syria and Iraq.