Egypt, France conduct naval drills in Mediterranean: spox

CAIRO – 1 October 2020: Naval forces of Egypt and Frances have carried out a military exercise in the Mediterranean that has involved the Egyptian FREMM frigate Tayha Misr and 209/1400 submarine, as well as the French Latouche-Treville submarine.

The German made 209/1400mod submarine is capable of launching torpedoes and missiles from the depth to the surface, and has been equipped with the most modern combat systems, sailing systems, communications and electronic war systems.

The joint exercise on Thursday included various training activities, including securing areas against probable submarine night attacks, electron warfare training and training to deter asymmetrical threats.

Exercises also included training on various sailing formations and conducting signal transportation exercises.

The drills come in light of endeavors meant to boost Egypt-France military cooperation, in a way that contributes to honing combat and operational skills for the two countries' armed forces.

They also support efforts that aim to maintain maritime security, stability and peace in the Mediterranean region.

The naval drills come in light of the Armed Forces General Command’s plan to raise the level of combat training and exchange expertise with the armed forces of Egypt’s friendly countries.

In 2011, Egypt signed a contract with Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to purchase four class 209/1400mod submarines. The first, S41, was delivered in December 2016. The second, S42, was handed over in August 2017, while the third was launched in May 2019. The contract will be concluded in 2021 with the delivery of the fourth vessel.

The submarine has a length of 62 meters and a diameter of 6.2 meters, and is operated by 30 crew members. Its displacement on surface and submerged is approximately 1,450 tons and 1,600 tons, respectively.

MENA contributed to the reporting.