French Carrier Strike Group led by FNS Charles de Gaulle visits India, 3â9 January
The group makes port calls at Goa and Kochi and holds a PASSEX with the Indian Navy's Western Fleet.
Summary
The French Carrier Strike Group, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, began a visit to India on 3 January 2025 that runs until 9 January, with port calls at Goa and Kochi. In Goa, the French Carrier Strike Group is holding a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) at sea with the Indian Navy's Western Fleet, and Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard, Commander of the French Navy Strike Group, will interact with Rear Admiral Ajay D Theophilus, Flag Officer Commanding Goa Naval Area. French ships FS Forbin and FS Alsace are simultaneously visiting Kochi for interactions with the Southern Naval Command, the Ministry of Defence said.
Key facts
- Visit
- 3â9 January 2025
- Lead ship
- FNS Charles de Gaulle (nuclear-powered aircraft carrier)
- Port calls
- Goa and Kochi
- Exercise
- PASSEX with Indian Navy's Western Fleet
- French commander
- Rear Admiral Jacques Mallard
- Indian host in Goa
- Rear Admiral Ajay D Theophilus, FOGA
- At Kochi
- FS Forbin and FS Alsace; Southern Naval Command
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Which aircraft carrier led the French Carrier Strike Group that visited India from 3 to 9 January 2025?
Show answer
Correct answer: B â FNS Charles de Gaulle
PIB (Defence): the group was led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle; FS Forbin was one of the ships that visited Kochi.
At which two Indian ports did the French Carrier Strike Group make port calls during its January 2025 visit?
Show answer
Correct answer: C â Goa and Kochi
PIB (Defence): the visit from 03â09 Jan 25 included port calls in Goa and Kochi.
With which Indian Navy formation did the French Carrier Strike Group hold a PASSEX in January 2025?
Show answer
Correct answer: D â Western Fleet
PIB (Defence): in Goa, the group is hosting engagements including a PASSEX at sea with the Indian Navy's Western Fleet.