The French Navy executed its first simultaneous launch of three Northrop Grumman E-2C Hawkeye airborne early-warning aircraft from the nuclear-powered carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle (R91) on March 12, 2026. Images released by the Marine Nationale depict the precision-choreographed takeoffs during the Lafayette 26 mission, marking a historic first for Flottille 4F operations.
Operated by Flottille 4F based at Lann-Bihoué, France maintains three E-2C Hawkeyes, with two typically embarked on Charles de Gaulle during patrols and the third available for rotation. These aircraft provide airborne early warning, battle management, airspace control, and real-time surveillance, detecting incoming threats and coordinating Rafale M fighters.
The launches occurred amid the carrier strike group’s redirection to the eastern Mediterranean, ordered by President Emmanuel Macron in response to escalating Middle East tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The group supports maritime security alongside frigates, amphibious ships, and a submarine protecting commercial traffic in the Mediterranean and Red Sea.
Commissioned in 2001, Charles de Gaulle—the only non-U.S. nuclear carrier—embarks a mixed air wing including up to 30 Rafale M fighters, E-2C Hawkeyes, and helicopters. The E-2Cs recently demonstrated capabilities in Exercise Orion 26, guiding Rafale M strikes with Exocet missiles and acting as force multipliers for the strike group.
This triple launch ensures operational continuity by replacing one aircraft while enabling formation flight, underscoring the carrier’s role as an airborne command center in contested regions.