French fighters join forces with Polish F‑16s in pivotal mission
"French Rafale fighters and an A-330MRT tanker have been transferred to the air base in Poznań-Krzesiny," reports the military portal Polska Zbrojna. The aircraft arrived from France to Poland to train with Polish F-16s as part of the Pégase '25 mission.
According to Polska Zbrojna, the Pégase '25 initiative was organized by the French. The exercises focus on the rapid deployment of an air force component to selected European countries. Brigadier General Pilot Patrice Hugret, the commander of the French contingent, explained that the French have previously trained with airmen from Sweden, then Finland, and now Poland. There are plans to conduct exercises with pilots from Croatia as well.
The military officer also explained the purpose of this initiative: "Firstly, we want to strengthen our partnership with the air forces of our allies," he said. Additionally, the presence of French troops aims to reassure the residents of Poland and other countries on the eastern flank. The French are demonstrating their ability to quickly deploy their forces to a critical region if necessary. The final goal is to show readiness and deter any strategic adversary from the east from taking actions that could threaten collective security.
French equipment arrived in Poland
Polska Zbrojna reports that a total of four Rafale fighters, two A-400M transport aircraft, and an A330MRT tanker arrived in Poland from France. Most of the aircraft are stationed at Poznań-Krzesiny, but some were sent to Powidz. Polish F-16s are collaborating with the French aircraft.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter has long proven its effectiveness in combat operations. Designed as a 4th generation aircraft, it can serve as both an air superiority fighter and a strike aircraft. Thanks to its two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale can reach speeds of up to 1.8 Mach, which is approximately 1,367 mph, and its maneuverability is very high.
