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The RAAF has trained its F-35A Lightnings alongside French Navy aircraft in the Top End.
French-led Exercise Rastaban 25 in January united RAAF’s 2 Operational Conversion Unit (2OCU) and French Naval aviators from 17F Squadron during the deployment of the French carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle to the Indo-Pacific.
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According to RAAF Detachment Commander Squadron Leader Jordon Sander, the exercise showed Australia’s and France’s commitment to regional security and enhanced the two nations’ interoperability.
“Exercises like Rastaban 25 provide invaluable opportunities to train alongside partner forces with diverse aircraft, sharpening our air combat skills,” Squadron Leader Sander said.
“We will take every opportunity to train with our partners when they deploy to the Indo-Pacific. We are able to learn from each other – from basic integration lessons to advanced combat manoeuvring.
“Whenever we get the chance to train against different aircraft, it’s great for our crews. The Rafale is an extremely capable fighter, and we’re looking forward to training alongside it again. As we fly together, we learn to fight together, and how to do so effectively.”
Commander Remi of the French Navy Detachment said the exercise was a good way to “foster mutual understanding and strengthen ties between the two forces”.
“Our current regional deployment mission, Clemenceau 25, will take us all the way through the region over a five-month period, and will see us doing lots of flying in the southern hemisphere,” Commander Remi said.
“It’s very important for us to be able to project our Rafales off the carrier and fly with forces like Australia, and this exercise provides the opportunity to rehearse that.”
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