PARIS — France is deploying its sole aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle to the Middle East.<br /><br />Citing President Emmanuel Macron's speech to the military, Reuters reports that the carrier and its battle group will support counterterrorism operations from January to April.<br /><br />According to Naval Technology, Charles de Gaulle is a 261.5 m long nuclear powered carrier with a displacement of 38,000 tonnes.<br /><br />The de Gaulle's air group includes up to 40 Rafale M fighters, E-2C early warning aircraft, and various helicopters, including the Dauphin PEDRO.<br /><br />The carrier's deck load is supplemented by an internal hanger equipped with two lifts for aircraft.<br /><br />The ship is also armed with the Aster and Mistral air to air missiles and 20mm guns for close range defense.<br /><br />Citing Macron, Reuters reports that after its deployment in the Middle East, the carrier will proceed to the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea.
