In the framework of the deployment of the French Naval Force CTF-473 in the Eastern Mediterranean, led by the aircraft carrier "CHARLES DE GAULLE (CDG)", with the mission of maritime surveillance, and in the framework of operation "ANTARES", a programme of exercises has been planned with the participation of CTF-473 and National Guard air assets.
In particular, on Friday 8 December 2022, an air defence exercise called TAMS "TALOS-2/2022" took place, involving Air Defence Command air defence systems and Rafale aircraft operating from the aircraft carrier CDG.
The exercise was attended on board the aircraft carrier CDG by the Chief of the National Guard, Lieutenant General Demokritos Zervakis, accompanied by the Commander of the Air Command, Brigadier General (I) Marios Floridis and the Commander of the Naval Command, Captain Konstantinos Gennadios.
The purpose of the exercise was to train air defense personnel in air force deployment tactics, to increase operational readiness and the level of standardization in planning and conducting air operations. Specifically, during the exercise, the air defense system and the self-protection system of the National Guard installations were activated and their performance was evaluated in realistic conditions, facing modern fighter aircraft. In addition, personnel practiced tactical weapons control and information transfer procedures, as well as the air defence procedures of the Air Control Centre.
At its conclusion, the Chief, after congratulating the participants, noted that in addition to the messages at the strategic level, the exercise helped to increase interoperability between the Air Forces at the operational and tactical levels, as well as the ability to coordinate, plan and conduct joint operations.
In addition to observing the exercise, the Chief was briefed by the Commander of CTF-473 on its capabilities, mission and overall operations in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region.
It should be noted that during the presence of the French Naval Force in the Eastern Mediterranean, a programme of exercises involving CTF-473 and National Guard air assets was planned.
In particular, on 26 November 2022, the Naval Command planned and conducted a small-scale aeronautical exercise called "CYP/FRA-04/2022", examining objects of common interest, while implementing the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation.
Also, from 6 to 9 December 2022, PATH IOANNIDIS joined CTF-473 and participated in all its scheduled missions. Similarly, an Officer of the Naval Command participated in the Force staff, boarding a French Frigate.
The implementation of the programme is ongoing and will continue throughout the duration of CTF-473's presence in the Eastern Mediterranean.
The joint activities are considered to be particularly beneficial as they enable National Guard personnel to co-train with French Armed Forces units, thus promoting interoperability, an essential element in the conduct of joint operations. They are also tangible proof of the excellent relationship that has developed over time between the Armed Forces of Cyprus and France, as well as an indication of the mutual intention to exploit every opportunity to further deepen military cooperation between the two countries.
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