The Charles de Gaulle (R91) is France's nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, commissioned 2001, displacing 42,500 tonnes and capable of carrying up to 40 aircraft including Rafale M fighters. It is the only nuclear carrier outside the US Navy.Source: Marine Nationale

Why did Macron send the Charles de Gaulle to the Mediterranean?

President Macron ordered the Charles de Gaulle to the Mediterranean in the early weeks of the Iran-Israel-US conflict, later formalising her commitment to the European Hormuz Coalition standby force on 18 May 2026.Source: event

How many aircraft can the Charles de Gaulle carry?

The Charles de Gaulle can carry up to 40 aircraft, primarily Rafale M fighters and E-2C Hawkeye airborne Early Warning aircraft.Source: Marine Nationale

Background

The Charles de Gaulle (R91) is France's sole aircraft carrier and the only nuclear-powered carrier operated by a country other than the United States. Commissioned in 2001, she displaces 42,500 tonnes at full load, carries up to 40 aircraft including Rafale M fighters and E-2C Hawkeye airborne Early Warning aircraft, and is powered by two K15 naval reactors giving her unlimited range. She is the flagship of the Marine Nationale and the centrepiece of France's carrier strike group (Groupe aéronaval).

President Macron ordered the Charles de Gaulle to the Mediterranean in the early weeks of the Iran-Israel-US conflict. On 18 May 2026, France formally committed her to the European Hormuz Coalition standby force alongside frigates and amphibious helicopter carriers, making the Charles de Gaulle the Coalition's principal strike asset and the only carrier in theatre.

The carrier's presence fundamentally changes the Coalition's posture: she brings organic air cover, strike reach, and command-and-control capacity that surface MCM vessels lack. Alongside Australia's E-7A Wedgetail, the Coalition can now maintain an air picture over the strait while conducting mine clearance. No rules of engagement have been published for any Coalition member.