French Rafale jets bolster NATO training in Poland
"French Rafale fighters and an A330 MRTT tanker have been transferred to the airbase 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.
The Pégase ‘25 initiative was organized by the French, according to Polska Zbrojna. The exercises involve the rapid deployment of an air force component to selected European countries. Brigadier General Patrice Hugret, the commander of the French contingent quoted by the portal, explained that the French have previously trained with airmen from Sweden, later Finland, and now Poland. There are plans to conduct exercises with pilots from Croatia.
The military official also explains the objectives of the mission: "First, we want to strengthen our partnership with the air forces of our allies." Additionally, the presence of French forces aims to reassure the residents of Poland and other countries on the eastern flank. This demonstrates that the French can quickly move their forces to critical areas if needed. The final goal is to show readiness and deter any strategic opponent from the east from undertaking actions that could threaten collective security.
French equipment arrived in Poland
Polska Zbrojna notes that a total of four Rafale fighters, two A400M transport aircraft, and an A330 MRTT 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 working alongside the French planes.
The French Dassault Rafale fighter has long proven its effectiveness in combat operations. Designed as a 4th generation aircraft, it is capable of performing both air superiority fighter and strike aircraft roles. Thanks to its two Snecma M88-2 engines, the Rafale can reach speeds of up to Mach 1.8, which is approximately 2,200 km/h, and its maneuverability is at a very high level.
