From September 20 to October 12, 2026, La Fayette-class frigate Surcouf was integrated into the Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) in the Eastern Mediterranean, as part of strengthening NATO’s deterrent and defensive posture.
This transition to NATO operational control enabled the crew to contribute to the strategic “knowledge and anticipation” function of the armed forces and the Alliance, by observing activity in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Integration into Task Group 441.02 also allowed the crew to familiarize themselves with NATO command and control procedures, to facilitate their future missions.
The crew took advantage of this integration into SNMG2, and two port calls in Turkey to conduct two training exercises with Turkish frigates. These exercises strengthened mutual understanding and interoperability between two NATO members, a key factor essential during a coalition operation.
Ultimately, these actions have demonstrated the ability of the French Navy’s vessels to integrate into an inter-allied system and to work in coalition, a prerequisite for any major engagement at sea.
