2019 France Special Weapons News

What Repatriation of French General Might Do for Franco-Russian Ties VOA 31 Dec 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron hopes the repatriation of the body of General Charles-Etienne Gudin, who was killed in Russia more than two centuries ago, could play a symbolic role in his diplomatic courting of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Macron vows more Africa troops with eye on Russia, China Press TV 21 Dec 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to provide "new force" to purportedly fight terrorists in Africa, as he paid a visit to Ivory Coast.
France is Arming its Drones to Target Islamist Terrorists in Sahel Sputnik 20 Dec 2019 -- France is fighting terrorists in the African Sahel region where Islamist violence has been on the rise this year. France has already lost 38 service members in Mali, the country hit most by violence, since 2013 – and a third of those soldiers died in a helicopter accident during an anti-terror raid last month.
Russia, Germany, UK, France underline preserving JCPOA IRNA 20 Dec 2019 -- Representatives of JCPOA member states, including Russia, France, Germany and Britain, discussed JCPOA in Moscow, stressing the need for saving the international deal.
Macron says won't drop pension reforms, but ready to make improvements Press TV 18 Dec 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has ruled out dropping his plan for a single points-based pension system, but is "willing to improve" it in the face of fierce union resistance, an official in the presidency said Wednesday.
French Government, Unions Launch Talks on Pension Reform Bill VOA 18 Dec 2019 -- French government and union representatives launched negotiations Wednesday to resolve differences over a pension reform bill that has triggered nationwide transportation strikes and widespread street protests.
France interested in maintaining JCPOA IRNA 16 Dec 2019 -- France say it is interested in maintaining the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
France Warns NATO Members' Disjointed Behaviour Has Left Bloc in 'State of Political Confusion' Sputnik 12 Dec 2019 -- Last week, at the NATO summit held on the 70th anniversary of the bloc's creation, US President Donald Trump accused French President Emmanuel Macron of making "very nasty" comments about the alliance after Macron called NATO "braindead" and said the alliance was seemingly unable to guarantee collective defence in the face of common threats.
France Orders Six Patrols Boats Capable of Deploying Heavy Drones and Securing Prisoners Sputnik 09 Dec 2019 -- The procurement order was given to French ship-building company Socarenam. The vessels are part of the Overseas Patroller Programme announced by Defence Minister Florence Parly this November, aimed at strengthening the protection of France's maritime regions and replacing the old generation of patrol ships.
French Strike Against Pension Reforms Continues VOA 06 Dec 2019 -- One of France's biggest demonstrations in recent history continued Friday, with unions vowing to protest until the government backs down on planned pension reforms.
NATO London Summit Day One Highlights: Trump-Macron Row, S-400, Syria, Avoiding Cold War With Russia Sputnik 04 Dec 2019 -- The two-day NATO summit of heads of state and government titled "NATO Engages: Innovating the Alliance", kicked off on Tuesday in London. US President Donald Trump, who has previously slammed European bloc members for not spending enough on weapons for the alliance, arrived in the United Kingdom on Monday night.
France Braces for Nationwide Strikes VOA 04 Dec 2019 -- France is preparing for nationwide strikes beginning Thursday that could bring the country to a standstill.
The President of the Republic announces the order of 6 overseas patrollers 03 Dec 2019 -- In front of the Assises of the maritime economy that are held today in Montpellier, the President of the Republic has announced the order of six new patrol boats for overseas.
Trump, Macron Air Differences at NATO Summit VOA 03 Dec 2019 -- Differences between U.S. President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron were on full display as NATO leaders gathered for a summit in London.
Macron's NATO comments were insulting, nasty: Trump Press TV 03 Dec 2019 -- US President Donald Trump has criticized French President Emmanuel Macron for describing the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as "brain dead".
On Sidelines Of NATO Summit, Macron Calls For 'Strategic Dialogue' With Russia RFE/RL 03 Dec 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has called for comprehensive talks with Russia on the sidelines of a summit in London marking NATO's 70th anniversary.
Remarks by President Trump and President Macron of France Before Bilateral Meeting | London, United Kingdom The White House 03 Dec 2019
France slams US for forcing own weapons on NATO allies Press TV 02 Dec 2019 -- France's defense chief has blasted the US for trying to force its NATO allies into purchasing American arms and equipment above anything else, days after President Emmanuel Macron held Washington to blame for the Western military bloc's "brain death."
Netherlands Set To Join French-Led Effort In Strait Of Hormuz RFE/RL 30 Nov 2019 -- The Netherlands says it will take part in a French-led mission to monitor shipping lanes in the Persian Gulf region starting in January.
Erdogan, Macron trade barbs in 'brain death' dispute Press TV 30 Nov 2019 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has engaged in a war of words with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron after the latter said NATO was dying owing to a lack of coordination between member states to respond to Ankara's Syria offensive.
France's Macron says his NATO "brain-death" comment "necessary wake-up call" People's Daily 29 Nov 2019 -- The "brain-death" comment on NATO has served as a "necessary wake-up call", French President Emmanuel Macron told a press conference along with NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg after their talks at the Elysee Palace on Thursday.
French President Should Check His Own 'Brain Death' - Erdogan on Macron's NATO Comment Sputnik 29 Nov 2019 -- In an interview with The Economist in early November, French President Emmanuel Macron said that European countries could no longer rely on the United States to defend North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) allies, adding that "what we are currently experiencing is the brain death of NATO".
Secretary General discusses strengthening NATO with President Macron NATO 28 Nov 2019 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Thursday (28 November 2019) for a strategic discussion on strengthening the Alliance. "We just had good and open discussions addressing a wide range of issues, addressing how we can further strengthen and modernise the NATO Alliance," said the Secretary General.
Macron Says Turkey Can't Expect Solidarity From NATO After Syria Offensive Sputnik 28 Nov 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg held a press conference in Paris ahead of the NATO leaders meeting in London on 3-4 December.
Macron Says Russia, China Not NATO Allies' Common Enemies -- Terrorism Is RFE/RL 28 Nov 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has said that he stands by comments he made three weeks ago when he described NATO as "brain-dead," and he defended his push for dialogue with Russia.
France's Macron Rejects Putin's Missile Moratorium Proposal Sputnik 28 Nov 2019 -- Macron Urges for 'Lucid, Robust' Dialogue With Russia
13 French troopers killed in helicopter crash in Mali Press TV 26 Nov 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says 13 French troopers have been killed in a helicopter crash during an operation against militants in Mali.
France designates Abu Dhabi as Persian Gulf European mission HQ, moves to upgrade Saudi air defenses Press TV 25 Nov 2019 -- France has designated Abu Dhabi as the headquarters for a so-called European-led naval coalition in the Persian Gulf, shortly after announcing that it is bolstering Saudi air defenses with new equipment.
French Defense Minister Says U.S. Disengaged In Mideast RFE/RL 23 Nov 2019 -- French Defense Minister Florence Parly told a security forum in Bahrain on November 23 that Paris will continue to speak with Tehran despite a string of international incidents seemingly involving Iran but also hinted at unease over what she described as "a deliberate, gradual U.S. disengagement" in the Middle East.
Deputy Commander of U.S. 6th Fleet visits French Aircraft Carrier FS Charles de Gaulle NNS 21 Nov 2019 -- Rear Adm. William J. Houston, deputy commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, was hosted aboard the French aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle by French Rear Adm. Marc Aussedat, commander, French Maritime Forces.
Russia, France criticize US for ending Fordow sanctions waiver Press TV 20 Nov 2019 -- Russia and France have expressed dismay at a recent US decision to cancel a sanctions waiver related to Iran's Fordow enrichment facility ending a key part of a 2015 multilateral nuclear agreement, which Washington abandoned last year.
Paris Regrets US Move to Terminate Sanctions Waiver on Iran's Fordow Nuclear Facility Sputnik 20 Nov 2019 -- France expresses concern over Tehran's non-compliance with nuclear obligations and regrets over US decision to reverse a sanctions waiver on Iran's Fordow nuclear facility, a spokesperson for the French Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.
Yellow Vest Protesters Mark Anniversary With Rallies, Violence VOA 16 Nov 2019 -- France's yellow vests staged demonstrations Saturday to mark the one-year anniversary of a protest movement for greater economic justice that once captured international headlines.
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran: France, Germany, UK and EU joint statement after 11 November IAEA report UK FCO 11 Nov 2019 -- French, German and UK Foreign Ministers and the EU High Representative statement after announcements that Iran is restarting uranium enrichment activities.
NATO 'brain dead', Europe on 'edge of precipice': Macron Press TV 07 Nov 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says he believes NATO is now experiencing "brain death", citing a lack of coordination between Europe and the US and unilateral actions in Syria by Turkey.
France's Macron Says NATO 'Brain-Dead,' Russia Says Comment 'Golden' RFE/RL 07 Nov 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has warned fellow European countries that NATO is dying because of Washington's lack of predictability under President Donald Trump, a view quickly rejected by Germany but hailed by Russia.
Merkel Disagrees With Macron's 'Sweeping Judgement' That NATO is Experiencing 'Brain Death' Sputnik 07 Nov 2019 -- US President Donald Trump in July asked NATO countries to contribute more to the alliance in terms of defence spending, as it is not "fair" that "many countries [are] nowhere close to their 2% commitment" while "the US is paying for 90% of NATO".
France's New Caledonia to hold independence vote in 2020 Press TV 05 Nov 2019 -- People in France's Pacific island territory of New Caledonia will go to the polls for yet another vote of independence from the European country on September 6 next year.
Europe-US Communiqué on the Afghan Peace Process US Dept. of State 22 Oct 2019 -- The text of the following statement was agreed by Special Envoys and Special Representatives of the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, the United Kingdom, the United Nations and the United States of America, when they met in EU Headquarters, Brussels on October 22, 2019.
Engel & European Allies Condemn Turkey's Invasion of Northern Syria U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs 21 Oct 2109 -- Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following joint statement with his counterparts in Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the European Parliament condemning Turkey's invasion of Northern Syria
Macron Tells Putin Syria Cease-Fire Should Be Extended RFE/RL 21 Oct 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has told his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, that France wants to see an extension of a cease-fire by Turkey in northeast Syria.
Has Turkey's New Offensive Left French Special Forces 'Between a Rock and a Hard Place'? Sputnik 20 Oct 2019 -- In the context of the Turkish offensive and the withdrawal of American troops from the region, Paris announced on the night of 13-14 October that "in the coming hours" measures would be taken to ensure the safety of the French military and civilian personnel present in the combat zone.
Japan, France propose $18.4Bln loan plan to Iran if in full compliance with JCPOA ISNA 20 Oct 2019 -- Japan and France have proposed a joint plan to provide Iran with a loan of about $18.4 billion to be secured by oil if Tehran returns to full compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), media reported.
France Urges Iran to Refrain From New Phase of Nuclear Commitments Reductions Sputnik 16 Oct 2019 -- Earlier this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that Tehran would soon use new-generation IR-9 gas centrifuges in its nuclear activity.
French Foreign Minister Calls on EU to Consider Turkish Arms Embargo Amid Syria Offensive Sputnik 14 Oct 2019 -- Ankara launched "Operation Peace Spring" last Wednesday, vowing to drive Daesh* terrorists and US-backed Kurdish fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) out of northern Syria, resulting in an escalation of tensions in the region.
France to Ensure Safety of Its Military, Civilian Personnel in Northern Syria In 'Coming Hours' Sputnik 14 Oct 2019 -- France suspended arms sales to Turkey on Saturday over Ankara's ongoing military incursion into the northern part of Syria, which was earlier condemned by the nation's president, Emmanuel Macron.
French-Cypriot Naval Exercises Underway Amid Turkey's Drilling Efforts in Region Sputnik 12 Oct 2019 -- Ankara previously positioned its vessels in the Cypriot exclusive economic zone in order to carry out exploration for hydrocarbons despite concerns raised by authorities in Nicosia and warnings from the EU.
France, Germany suspend selling arms to Turkey over Syria operation Press TV 12 Oct 2019 -- France and Germany have announced that they are imposing an immediate halt to arms exports to Turkey over Ankara's continued war on Kurds in northern Syria.
France Suspends Weapons Exports To Turkey Amid 'Operation Peace Spring' Sputnik 12 Oct 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the Turkish military invasion in Syria and urged Ankara to immediately cease its aggression.
France, Arab League Warn Turkish Offensive In Syria Could Aid Islamic State RFE/RL 12 Oct 2019 -- France and the Arab League have called on Turkey to halt its military offensive in Syria.
France Mourns Former President Jacques Chirac VOA 26 Sep 2019 -- France is mourning former president Jacques Chirac, a veteran politician and champion of multilateralism, European unity and Africa, who died Thursday at age 86.
Former French President Jacques Chirac Dies at 86 Sputnik 26 Sep 2019 -- As a president was known for his economic policies, based on dirigisme, allowing for state-directed investment. Chirac also opposed the American-led invasion of Iraq and shortened the presidential term from seven to five years in a referendum in 2000.
Iranian, French presidents discuss de-escalation of Mideast tensions in New York Press TV 24 Sep 2019 -- President Hassan Rouhani of Iran and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron have held talks in New York on ways to ease regional tensions and save the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
Britain, France, Germany, Blame Iran For Saudi Attack, Urge Talks On Nuclear, Missile Issues RFE/RL 23 Sep 2019 -- The leaders of Britain, France, and Germany have backed the United States in assertions that Iran is to blame for the attack on Saudi oil facilities and urged Tehran to choose dialogue over "provocation."
Germany, France removing obstacles to export jointly-manufactured weapons Press TV 21 Sep 2019 -- France and Germany say they are expected to sign an agreement on removing obstacles on exporting jointly-manufactured weapons to non-European and non-NATO countries.
Macron's Courtship of Putin Alarming Russia's Near Neighbors VOA 11 Sep 2019 -- Two years ago, France's Emmanuel Macron was widely seen as the most bellicose of Western leaders when it came to confronting Moscow over its annexation of Crimea and its fomenting of violent separatism in the Donbas region of Ukraine.
France and Holland signal they may veto Brexit extension Press TV 10 Sep 2019 -- In a sign of growing European exasperation with the chaotic state of affairs in Westminster, France and the Netherlands have indicated they may oppose an extension to Brexit.
Indian Defence Minister to Receive Rafale Fighters From France in October Sputnik 10 Sep 2019 -- India signed an Inter-Governmental Agreement in 2016 with the French government and Dassault Aviation of France for the acquisition of 36 multirole fighter aircraft in fly-away condition at the cost of over 7.8 billion euros. Rafales are capable of carrying a range of potent weapons and missiles.
CNO Meets with French Counterpart NNS 09 Sep 2019 -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday met with his French counterpart, Chief of Staff of the French Navy Adm. Christophe Prazuck, during an office call, Sept. 6.
Macron, Putin Discuss Ukraine Conflict Before Their Defense, Foreign Ministers Meet RFE/RL 09 Sep 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron about the armed conflict in eastern Ukrainian and Iranian nuclear deal on September 8, according to the Kremlin's website.
Russia's United Engine Corporation Working to Replace French Ardiden 3G - Head Designer Sputnik 09 Sep 2019 -- Russia's United Engine Corporation is working on a replacement for a French engine Ardiden 3G that is used on Ka-62 helicopters, the company's chief designer, Yury Shmotin, said.
French Ministers In Moscow In Bid To Rebuild Ties RFE/RL 09 Sep 2019 -- The French foreign and defense ministers have held "frank" talks with their Russian counterparts in Moscow as Paris pushes for a detente with Russia.
France, Russia call for preserving JCPOA IRNA 09 Sep 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a phone conversation called for preserving Iran nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Readout of Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper's Meetings in France DoD 07 Sep 2019
France Says Will Make Every Effort to Bring Iran to Compliance With Nuclear Deal Sputnik 07 Sep 2019 -- France will continue making every effort to return Iran to the full implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), French Defen?e Minister Florence Parly said on Saturday.
France, US Need to Coordinate Navies in Gulf - Senior US Defence Official Sputnik 06 Sep 2019 -- France is capable of playing a leadership role in ensuring maritime security in the Persian Gulf but there still has to be coordination with the US Navy, a senior US defence official said Friday ahead of US defence chief's visit to Paris.
Iran's FM Zarif invited to G7 Summit IRNA 25 Aug 2019 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi announced the visit of the head of Iran's diplomatic apparatus Mohammad Javad Zarif to G7 summit at the invitation of his French counterpart.
Iran's foreign minister in G7 venue, no talks with US on agenda: Spokesman Press TV 25 Aug 2019 -- Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has arrived in the French city of Biarritz where a meeting of the seven top economic powers of the world, known as G7, is going on to discuss with French officials the recent initiatives offered by the two countries' presidents.
French Presidency Hails 'Positive' Talks With Iranian Foreign Minister; Zarif Says 'Difficult' Road Ahead RFE/RL 25 Aug 2019 -- The French president's office has described talks on the sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) summit in the coastal town of Biarritz between French leaders and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif as "positive" and said the discussions, which also included Germany and Britain, would continue.
Global Trade Woes Likely Topic As G7 Leaders Begin Second Day Of Summit RFE/RL 25 Aug 2019 -- The leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrialized nations are set to begin the second day of their three-day summit in France, with global trade tensions likely to be the focus of talks.
G-7 Meets in France VOA 25 Aug 2019 -- The leaders of the world's major industrialized countries are holding their annual summit.
Trump at Odds with G-7 Leaders on Trade, Iran, N. Korea, Russia VOA 25 Aug 2019 -- U.S. President Donald Trump insists discussions are going well at the G-7 summit in Biarritz, France, despite apparent differences with leaders on issues including the trade war with China, how to handle Iran, the threat posed by North Korea and bringing Russia back into the grouping of the world's most advanced democracies.
Iran's FM Zarif Calls Nuclear Talks With France's Macron 'Productive' RFE/RL 23 Aug 2019 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says talks with French President Emanuel Macron aimed at rescuing a 2015 international deal to curb Tehran's nuclear program were "productive."
Iran, France discuss latest regional issues, JCPOA IRNA 23 Aug 2019 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian reviewed latest developments in bilateral ties, regional issues and Iran nuclear deal known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
Talks with French president on nuclear deal constructive: Iran FM Press TV 23 Aug 2019 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif says he held "constructive" negotiations with French President Emmanuel Macron on ways to salvage an international nuclear deal, over a year after the United States unilaterally withdrew from it.
India, France May Start Discussion on Purchase of 36 More Rafale Fighter Jet Deal Sputnik 22 Aug 2019 -- Prior to departing for a three-nation state visit on Thursday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India and France have "excellent" bilateral ties and said he hoped the visit would "further promote our long-standing and valued friendship".
Putin, Macron Discuss Possibility Of Holding Summit On Ukraine RFE/RL 19 Aug 2019 -- During their meeting in southern France, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, discussed efforts to advance negotiations to curb the conflict between Ukrainian forces and Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.
Russia Doesn't Want 'Yellow Vest' Protests, Putin Tells Macron RFE/RL 19 Aug 2019 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has vowed to prevent any situation occurring in Moscow similar to the "yellow vest" protest movement that has rocked French cities since late last year.
Presidents of France, Russia Meet to Discuss World Conflicts VOA 19 Aug 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in southern France where they made progress on boosting peace talks for Ukraine but disagreed on other issues, including Syria and Russia's crackdown on opposition protesters.
Ukraine High On The Agenda As Macron Hosts Putin In Southern France RFE/RL 18 Aug 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to try to convince his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, to accept Ukraine's overtures of dialogue when the two leaders meet in southern France on August 19.
China, France vow to enhance cooperation to ease tensions on Iran nuclear issue IRNA 10 Aug 2019-- China is willing to work with France to prevent further escalation of tensions on the Iran nuclear issue, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday in a phone conversation with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic counselor to French President Emmanuel Macron.
France Announces Plans to Develop Anti-Satellite Weapons Sputnik 25 Jul 2019 -- Last year, Paris announced it would spend 3.6 billion euros (over $4 billion) to renew military satellites, citing security concerns.
France to Deploy European Missile Defence in South of Turkey After First S-400s Deliveries - Report Sputnik 25 Jul 2019 -- Turkey adhered to the contract with Russia on S-400 procurements despite the intense pressure from Washington to drop it. Still, Turkey hasn't abandoned plans to acquire European and US-made air defences at the same time.
Long-Lost French Submarine Finally Found in Mediterranean Sea Sputnik 22 Jul 2019 -- On 27 January 1968, during the exercises of the French fleet, the French submarine "La Minerve" disappeared in the Mediterranean with 52 people on board.
French Submarine Found 50 Years After Disappearance VOA 22 Jul 2019 -- The wreckage of a French submarine that disappeared more than 50 years ago has been found almost 45 kilometers from the vessel's home port of Toulon.
NATO Secretary General joins French President, European leaders at Bastille Day parade NATO 14 Jul 2019 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg joined President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders in celebrating France's national day at the Bastille Day parade in Paris on Sunday (14 July 2019).
Macron announces creation of French space force command Press TV 14 Jul 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has approved the creation of a military space force command to boost the country's military capabilities amid a precarious state of ties with the US.
Macron Declares That French Space Command is in the Works Sputnik 13 Jul 2019 -- The new space initiative is expected to help France better ensure the safety of its satellites.
France to Train 300,000 African Personnel to Serve in UN Missions by 2020 - Deputy Envoy Sputnik 11 Jul 2019 -- The government of France will prepare more than 30,000 African soldiers to participate in UN peacekeeping operations by 2020, French Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Anne Gueguen said during the UN Security Council open debate on peacekeeping.
France admits missiles found in rebel general's base are its Press TV 11 Jul 2019 -- France has confirmed that missiles seized last month from forces loyal to Libyan renegade general Khalifa Haftar belonged to the French military.
In Now-Familiar Role, Macron Seeks to Diffuse Iran Crisis VOA 10 Jul 2019 -- Amid mounting tensions between the United States and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron is assuming an increasingly familiar mantle: as Europe's go-to leader and top interlocutor.
French Reconnaissance Ship Dupuy de Lome Enters Black Sea Sputnik 04 Jul 2019 -- The French naval reconnaissance ship Dupuy de Lome has entered the Black Sea, according to the resource Bosphorus Observer, which tracks the passage of vessels through the Bosphorus.
France Vows to Continue Patrols in South China Sea, Risking Provoking Beijing's Fury Sputnik 30 Jun 2019 -- France and the UK earlier pledged to send their warships to the waters claimed by China, who is said to have ramped up its military presence in the region. Beijing insists that the South China Sea is free and open for navigation, but warns that violating China's sovereignty will not be tolerated.
Acting Secretary of Defense Mark T. Esper's meeting with French Minister of Defense Florence Parly DoD 27 Jun 2019
France signs a Letter of Intent with Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Norway for cooperation on strategic airlift, air refueling NATO 18 Jun 2019 -- Today, (18 June 2019) six NATO Allies took a critical step towards making the future Multi Role Tanker and Transport Capability (MRTT-C) more affordable. A Letter of Intent on cooperation around the MRTT-C was signed between France and the five current MRTT-C participants: Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Norway. This will help make maintenance and repair operations for the MRTT-C more affordable. The Letter of Intent sets out areas of cooperation including exchanges of expertise and joint training.
Airbus welcomes Franco-German decision to onboard Spain as partner in Future Combat Air System programme Airbus 17 Jun 2019 -- At the 2019 Paris Air Show, the Governments of France and Germany officially welcomed Spain as a partner nation in the sixth-generation Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme.
Industrial agreement, offers delivered to France and Germany: Dassault Aviation and Airbus achieve next decisive milestone for Future Combat Air System programme Dassault Aviation 17 Jun 2019 -- Dassault Aviation and Airbus SE have delivered a joint industrial proposal to the governments of France and Germany for the first Demonstrator Phase of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS).
France: Iran nuclear deal can still be saved Press TV 17 Jun 2019 -- France says there is a window of opportunity between now and July 8 -- when Iran has warned it could be forced to suspend more of its nuclear obligations -- to save the nuclear deal between the Islamic Republic and world countries.
Collapse of nuclear deal will not benefit Iran, France, world: Rouhani Press TV 17 Jun 2019 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani says France and other signatories to a 2015 nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic must do their best to help the accord survive, as its failure will not serve the interests of Iran, France and the entire world.
Iran slams France's inaction to save JCPOA, says INSTEX still 'on paper' Press TV 15 Jun 2019 -- Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani has criticized France for its inaction in preserving the 2015 nuclear deal, saying a European-proposed financial mechanism meant to protect trade ties with Iran against the US sanctions is still "on paper".
French Air Force bolsters its fleet of H225Ms Airbus 14 Jun 2019 -- The French Defence Procurement Agency DGA has signed an order to purchase an additional H225M which will be operated by the French Air Force. The aircraft will be delivered in a configuration that allows it to be interoperable with the existing fleet of 10 H225Ms in the French Air Force and in particular it will be capable of inflight refuelling, an essential operational advantage that this helicopter offers.
German and French Positions at Odds Over Turkey's Purchase of Russian S-400 Systems Sputnik 14 Jun 2019 -- The Turkish foreign minister recently blasted US attempts to impose an ultimatum on Turkey over its S-400 purchase, noting that no foreign state has the right to tell Ankara what it should or shouldn't do.
Qatar receives first 5 Rafale jets from France Press TV 06 Jun 2019 -- Qatar has received its first batch of Rafale fighter jets from France, amid a standoff with four fellow-Arab states led by Saudi Arabia.
Trump Says US, France on Same Page With Regard to Iran Sputnik 06 Jun 2019 -- President Donald Trump said on Thursday that the United States and France share the common objective that Iran cannot obtain nuclear weapons despite French President Emmanuel Macron's recent comment that he regretted Washington's decision to pull out of the international nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic.
Germany to approve first millions for French-German fighter aircraft system Global Times 06 Jun 2019 -- The budget committee of the German Bundestag is to approve the first 32.5 million euros (36.6 million U.S. dollars) for the new French-German fighter aircraft system FCAS, German media reported on Wednesday.
France's arms sales to Saudis jumped by %50 in 2018: Data Press TV 04 Jun 2019 -- Newly-released figures show that France increased its weapons sales to Saudi Arabia by 50 percent last year despite growing international concern about the atrocities committed in a Saudi-led war on Yemen.
Another Saudi ship leaves French port without weapons amid anti-war protests Press TV 31 May 2019 -- Activists have managed to force yet another Saudi cargo ship to leave the southern French port of Fos-sur-Mer without loading weapons that it was supposed to take back home amid Riyadh's deadly war against the people of Yemen.
France, Germany Call For Resumed Ukraine Peace Talks During Visit To Kyiv RFE/RL 30 May 2019 -- France and Germany are seeking the resumption of stalled peace talks for the bloody conflict in eastern Ukraine, the Western nations' foreign ministers say.
France blasts 'dirty' Saudi-led war, but keeps arms flow Press TV 28 May 2019 -- France has urged Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to stop the "dirty war" on Yemen, but says, at the same time, that it will continue its controversial arms sales to the Persian Gulf states.
French Police Arrest 4 Suspects in Last Week's Lyon Explosion VOA 27 May 2019 -- French authorities say four suspects have been arrested in connection with a bombing that injured 13 people last week in the city of Lyon.
France Admits Polynesia Was Forced to Undergo Dangerous Nuclear Tests Sputnik 25 May 2019 -- From 1966 to 1996, some 193 nuclear tests were carried out by France around the islands of French Polynesia, including Bora Bora and Tahiti.
Bomb attack injures 13 in France's Lyon Press TV 24 May 2019 -- A bomb attack has wounded at least 13 people in France's southeastern city of Lyon.
Iran reacts to France's stance on JCPOA IRNA 22 May 2019 -- Foreign Ministry spokesman said that Iran is ready to implement JCPOA exactly in the same way France and its European allies did it.
EU under huge pressure from US over Iran: French minister IRNA 22 May 2019 -- European powers are facing huge pressure from the United States to drop its proposed trade channel with Iran, French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said on Tuesday.
Iran ready to implement JCPOA just as France did: Foreign Ministry spokesman ISNA 22 May 2019 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, Seyyed Abbas Mousavi says Iran is prepared to support the nuclear deal exactly in the same way that France and its European allies have supported and implemented the agreement during the past year.
EU under huge US pressure over Iran trade: France Press TV 22 May 2019 -- French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire says France, Germany and Britain are coming under immense pressure from the US to cancel out their proposed trade channel with Iran, which has yet to see the light of day.
Russia, France, Germany defend JCPOA, support trade with Iran Press TV 22 May 2019 -- The leaders of Russia, France and Germany have underscored the need to preserve the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, stressing their commitment to boosting trade ties with the Islamic Republic despite the United States' unilateral withdrawal from the accord.
Iran says ready to support nuclear deal 'just as France did' Press TV 21 May 2019 -- Iran says it is fully prepared to implement the 2015 nuclear deal exactly in the same way that France and its European partners did during the past year.
Seven French Navy Fighter Jets Make Emergency Landing Amid Drill in Indonesia Sputnik 19 May 2019 -- Bad weather has forced seven French Navy fighter planes that participated in military drills to make emergency landings in Indonesia on Sunday, according to AP.
UN chief warns of nuclear 'coffin' leaking in Pacific Press TV 16 May 2019 -- United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed alarm at the leakage of radioactive material from a concrete dome built to contain waste from atomic bomb tests by the United States amd France during the Cold War.
France Has Not Beefed Up Patrols in Persian Gulf Amid Iran Tensions - Army Chief Sputnik 16 May 2019 -- Four ships, including two Saudi oil tankers, were targeted off the United Arab Emirates, said the two countries on Sunday and Monday, without further details on the circumstances or suspected perpetrators. The Saudis have denounced an attempt to jeopardise the security of global oil deliveries.
Two French Soldiers Killed in West Africa Rescuing Hostages Sputnik 10 May 2019 -- The rescue operation to free the two French tourists, identified as Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas, took place overnight. The tourists had disappeared from Pendjari National Park in Benin on 1 May and their local guide had been found dead.
Britain, France, Germany Vie for Influence in Africa VOA 03 May 2019 -- Britain's Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt and Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel are conducting separate visits to Africa this week, the latest in a flurry of visits by European leaders and officials as Western states look to expand their engagement on issues like trade, migration and security.
China lodges protest after French warships passes through Taiwan Strait Press TV 25 Apr 2019 -- Beijing says it has lodged "stern representations" with Paris after a French navy warship entered the Taiwan Strait earlier this month, prompting the Chinese military to scramble vessels to warn it off.
Chinese Navy Warns Off French Warship in Taiwan Strait - Beijing Sputnik 25 Apr 2019 -- The development comes after Taiwan scrambled warplanes late last month to "drive away" two Chinese fighter jets which it said flew past a maritime border in the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan aware of all foreign ships in Taiwan Strait: president CNA 25 Apr 2019 -- Taiwan remains on top of the passage of all foreign ships through the Taiwan Strait, President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Thursday following the reported passage of a French military vessel through the strait earlier in the month.
France seeks source of damaging leak on Yemen war Press TV 25 Apr 2019 -- French authorities have been searching for a government employee who they believe has leaked damaging information about France's role in the Saudi-led war on Yemen to the media, a report says.
France, UK and U.S. Navies Complete Artemis Trident 19 NNS 18 Apr 2019 -- France's Marine Nationale, the United Kingdom's Royal Navy and the U.S. Navy completed the U.S. 5th Fleet mine countermeasures exercise Artemis Trident in the Arabian Gulf.
France Rejects Claims its Weapons Were Used in Yemen War Despite Leaked Report Sputnik 18 Apr 2019 -- The statement comes a few days after the investigative website Disclose reported the "massive use" of French-made weapons, including tanks, helicopters and fighter jets, in war-torn Yemen.
MiGs and Rafales to Slug It Out in Largest Indo-French Naval Exercise - Report Sputnik 18 Apr 2019 -- French Rafale aircraft will be pitted against Indian-owned, Russian and Soviet-made MiGs atop a Russian-made aircraft carrier. The event constitutes part of the expanding strategic partnership between the two countries to counter China's footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
John C. Stennis, Charles de Gaulle Conduct Maritime Exercise in Red Sea NNS 16 Apr 2019 -- Maritime forces from France's Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group and the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group participated in a naval passing exercise (PASSEX) in the Red Sea, April 15.
France committed to JCPOA: Paris ISNA 16 Apr 2019 -- Elysee confirmed its commitment to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), a day after Iran summoned French ambassador to Tehran following a French diplomat's tweets.
Leaked French Intel Report Contradicts Paris' Claims its Weapons Aren't in Yemen Sputnik 15 Apr 2019 -- A secret French government report detailing the Saudi-led coalition's extensive use of French-made weapons in the war in Yemen has been leaked to the press. It's only the latest expose of how Western nations have provided the coalition with the tools to further the conflict, which has snowballed into a humanitarian catastrophe.
French-Made Weapons Reportedly Used in Yemen War, More Arms to Be Delivered Sputnik 15 Apr 2019 -- Reporters accuse the French government of concealing information about the deployment of these weapons - including battle tanks, artillery, helicopters, and fighter jets - against the civilian population.
Saudi, UAE massively using French weaponry in Yemen war: Classified note Press TV 15 Apr 2019 -- A classified document of the French government has revealed that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirate (UAE) are massively using French-made weaponry in the Saudi-led war on impoverished Yemen, a disturbing fact that contradicts public statements from Paris.
CENTCOM: French Navy's Deployment in Qatar Reinforces Operation Inherent Resolve Sputnik 08 Apr 2019 -- France has sent warships to the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar to assist the integration of French aircraft into the US-counterterror campaign in Iraq and Syria, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a press release on Monday.
France Tests New Anti-Tank Missile in Arctic Conditions Sputnik 22 Mar 2019 -- The French military began deploying the man-portable weapon in 2017, with plans to equip the French Armed Forces with some 400 launchers and 1,950 missiles by 2025.
Readout of Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick M. Shanahan's Meeting with French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 18 Mar 2019
Media Availability with Acting Secretary Shanahan Prior to an Enhanced Honor Cordon Welcoming French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 18 Mar 2019
Shanahan, French Counterpart Discuss Syria, Iraq During Pentagon Meeting DoD News 18 Mar 2019 -- Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan welcomed French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly to the Pentagon today for talks centering on activities in the Middle East.
Syria lashes out at US, UK, France over statement Press TV 17 Mar 2019 -- Syria has strongly dismissed a joint statement by the United States, France, and Britain that declares they will not be participating in the war-torn Arab country's reconstruction as long as it is led by President Bashar al-Assad.
Macron's trip to Africa seen as attempts to counter China's influence Press TV 17 Mar 2019 -- President Emmanuel Macron embarked on a four-day trip to the Horn of Africa nations last week, with the visit largely seen as part of attempts by France to cement new ties in a region where China's influence has been growing fast.
France Starts New Chapter in National Debate Aimed to End Yellow-Vest Crisis VOA 17 Mar 2019 -- After wrapping up thousands of town hall meetings, France starts a new chapter of its "great debate," aimed to address longstanding public grievances and offer solutions to the yellow vest protest movement.
French Carrier Strike Group Joins Operations Against Daesh - US Central Command Sputnik 15 Mar 2019 -- The French Navy's aircraft carrier Charles-de-Gaulle and its strike group have joined the operations of the US-led coalition against the Daesh terror group, the US Central Command said in a statement.
Former Colonial Power France Silent on Algerian Protests VOA 05 Mar 2019 -- In recent weeks, French President Emmanuel Macron has spoken out forcefully in favor of the European Union and Venezuela's opposition protests. He has dominated town hall meetings to address grievances at home, and sought stronger ties in China.
France to Send Updated Charles de Gaulle Carrier to Indian Ocean Next Month Sputnik 28 Feb 2019 -- France's only aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, will soon deploy to the Indian Ocean, the French Ministry of Defense announced Friday. Paris hopes the move will solidify its influence in the region, although the waterway is very much France's stomping ground, the country having numerous territories and bases in the area.
Riyadh's SAMI Agrees to Joint Venture With French Naval Group to Build Warships Sputnik 18 Feb 2019 -- Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), the state-owned defense company, has signed on Sunday a preliminary agreement with France's Naval Group on the creation of a joint venture for the construction of warships in the kingdom.
Readout of Acting Secretary of Defense Patrick M. Shanahan's Meeting With French Minister of Armed Forces Florence Parly DoD 14 Feb 2019
US gives lift to French forces Army News 13 Feb 2019 -- It's almost midnight. A 23-year-old American Soldier navigates the red and white lights blinking down on the flight line. He approaches the plane's tailgate and makes a beeline to his French counterpart. She nods at his arrival and reaches for her clipboard.
Navy welcomes historic agreement for future submarines Royal Australian Navy 11 Feb 2019 -- The Australian Government today ratified a Strategic Partnering Agreement with the French shipbuilding company Naval Group that will see 12 regionally superior submarines designed and built in Australia for the Royal Australian Navy as part of the Future Submarine Program.
Australia Signs $35Bln Submarine Deal With French Contractor - Defence Minister Sputnik 11 Feb 2019 -- The Australian government has signed an agreement with French Naval Group to build 12 attack class submarines worth 50 billion Australian dollars ($35.5 billion) for the Royal Australian Navy, the Australian defense minister said on Monday.
No End in Sight in France's 'Yellow Vest' Revolt VOA 11 Feb 2019 -- They won't go away. Week after week, France's yellow vests are out on the streets, in one of the biggest and longest popular uprisings the country has seen in years; a political crisis with no easy exit.
Paris, Berlin Take First Step Toward Jet That Will Replace Rafale, Eurofighters Sputnik 08 Feb 2019 -- Paris and Berlin, which have pushed the idea of creating a joint European army, unveiled their ambitious goal to design the new Future Combat Air System (FCAS), including a fighter and associated weapons in July 2017. It has taken them almost two years to proceed to taking concrete steps.
Indian PM Modi's Office had Parallel Negotiations with Rafale Team - Reports Sputnik 08 Feb 2019 -- The Indian Defence Ministry set up a seven-member negotiation committee for the purchase of 36 Rafale jets from France under the government to government contract. However, The Hindu, an Indian English-language daily, has revealed that there were parallel negotiations for the same deal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's office.
France Backs Changes To EU Energy Rules Seen As Threat To Nord Stream 2 RFE/RL 07 Feb 2019 -- France says it supports proposed amendments to rules on the European Union's energy market that could potentially threaten the completion of an underwater natural-gas pipeline between Russia and Germany through the Baltic Sea.
Turkey raps French plan to mark Armenian 'genocide' day Press TV 06 Feb 2019 -- Turkey has condemned a decision by French President Emmanuel Macron to declare a national day for the commemoration of the "genocide" of Armenians by Turkish troops in World War I.
Turkey Slams France Over Armenian-Genocide-Commemoration Day RFE/RL 06 Feb 2019 -- Turkey has denounced French President Emmanuel Macron's decision to set April 24 as a day to commemorate the "Armenian genocide" as political manipulation.
France Simulates Nuclear Strike Amid Russian-US INF Tensions - Report Sputnik 05 Feb 2019 -- Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said Tuesday that Russia would create a ground-based version of its nuclear-capable Kalibr missile in response to the US withdrawal from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty. Ex-French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine has urged Moscow and Washington to come up with a new treaty to replace the INF.
Iran, France discuss INSTEX implementation IRNA 05 Feb 2019 -- Iranian and French top officials discussed implementation of Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX) between Iran and EU.
India Enlists France's Arianespace to Replace Dying Satellite - Report Sputnik 04 Feb 2019 -- The replacement satellite, GSAT-31, will provide wide-beam coverage to facilitate communication over large oceanic regions including the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean using a wide-band transponder. The two Ku-band beacon down-link signals are transmitted for the purpose of ground tracking.
Arianespace Rejects Russia Offer to Fix Seam Rupture in Fregat Booster - Source Sputnik 04 Feb 2019 -- Arianespace has not accepted the offer by the Russian Lavochkin Research and Production Association to "patch up" the rupture in the pipeline that supplies helium to fuel tanks of the Fregat booster on the Soyuz-ST carrier rocket at the space center, a source in the rocket and space industry told Sputnik on Monday.
Joint statement on the creation of INSTEX, the special purpose vehicle aimed at facilitating legitimate trade with Iran in the framework of the efforts to preserve the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) Germany Federal Foreign Office 31 Jan 2019 -- Joint statement by the E3 Foreign Ministers Jean-Yves Le Drian (France), Heiko Maas (Germany), Jeremy Hunt (United Kingdom)
Five Nuclear Powers Meeting In Beijing As U.S. Calls For Transparency RFE/RL 30 Jan 2019 -- The United States has called for more transparency from Russia and China regarding their nuclear programs, as diplomats from five major nuclear powers meet in Beijing.
'Can't Afford to Wait': Defence Chief Unveils France's Hypersonic Arms Ambitions Sputnik 28 Jan 2019 -- Paris is looking to join the handful of states worldwide with hypersonic weapons capabilities.
France's Macron in Egypt Amid Defense, Rights Concerns VOA 27 Jan 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron left a France roiled by ongoing yellow vest protests for another tumultuous region - the Middle East - and talks with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sissi on regional politics and weapons sales, shadowed by the looming U.S. troop pullout from Syria.
French gov't to present hard Brexit plan People's Daily 24 Jan 2019 -- The French government intends to present, in early February, details of a package of emergency measures meant to protect the interests of citizens and companies in case of a hard Brexit, said European Affairs Minister Nathalie Loiseau on Wednesday.
USS Mobile Bay Participates In Intrepid Sentinel NNS 23 Jan 2019 -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3, joined with maritime forces from France, United Kingdom, and Australia to complete exercise Intrepid Sentinel in the Arabian Gulf, Jan. 17.
Maritime Warfare Exercise Conducted by France, United Kingdom, Australia, US in C5F NNS 22 Jan 2019 -- Maritime forces from France, the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States participated in the maritime warfare exercise Intrepid Sentinel in the Arabian Gulf, Jan. 15-17.
'Yellow Vest' protesters rally in France despite Macron's outreach Press TV 19 Jan 2019 -- Hundreds of "Yellow Vest" demonstrators have convened in the French capital, Paris, and several other cities for the tenth consecutive weekend of anti-government protests despite a national debate launched this week by President Emmanuel Macron aimed at relieving the discontent.
Macron says France seeks to remain in Syria, 'militarily engaged' in Mideast Press TV 18 Jan 2019 -- President Emmanuel Macron says France will keep its forces in Syria and remain "militarily engaged" in the Middle East despite US plans to withdraw from the Arab country.
Macron: France to Keep Military Presence in Syria-Iraq Region Over Next Year Sputnik 17 Jan 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron explained that the recent terror attack that claimed the lives of US soldiers in the Syrian city of Manbij showed that the battle against Daesh* is not over.
France Denies Buying Rafale Fighter Jets at a Price Cheaper Than India Sputnik 16 Jan 2019 -- The controversy over the purchase of French Rafale fighter jets by the Indian government refuses to die down. A media report claiming that France purchased the Rafale jets at a 50% lower price than the Indian government has given the controversy fresh life. Indian opposition leaders are accusing the Modi government of signing an overpriced deal.
France's Macron launches 3-month national debate to calm unrest Press TV 14 Jan 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has, in a lengthy letter to the nation, asked people to express their views on government policies as part of a "national debate" aimed at calming public anger and ending almost two months of "yellow vest" protests that have shaken the administration.
France's Macron Calls Fellow Citizens to National Debate VOA 13 Jan 2019 -- French President Emmanuel Macron has released what he calls a "letter to the French," encouraging a national debate on issues that have led to two months of anti-government protests.
France Urges Iran to Stop Missile Activities Related to Nuclear Weapons Sputnik 11 Jan 2019 -- Earlier, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that his country would launch two satellites using domestic launch vehicles in the near future.
France Reveals Terms of Its Withdrawal From Syria Sputnik 10 Jan 2019 -- The statement comes a few weeks after the White House announced that the US had begun removing its forces from Syria, but stressed that it did not mean the end of the US-led international coalition's fight against Daesh* terrorists in the Arab country.
French Air Force's Mirage 2000D Bomber Crashes in Eastern France – Reports Sputnik 09 Jan 2019 -- The Mirage 2000D tactical bomber of the French Air Force crashed in eastern France on Wednesday after disappearing from radars, the debris of the aircraft have been already found, France 3 reported.

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2019 France Special Weapons News