From December 8 to 11, 2025, the offshore patrol vessel (OPV) Commandant Bouan conducted individual and joint training exercises in the Mediterranean. To qualify for its next mission, the crew conducted a series of maneuvers, exercises, and live-fire drills.
On the evening of December 8th, the multi-mission frigate (FREMM) Languedoc and the amphibious assault ship Commandant Bouan successfully conducted an anti-aircraft gunnery exercise against a towed target. In addition to refining the operational sequence, this firing demonstrated the excellent accuracy of the 100mm gun. This effectiveness was confirmed during two further firings, first against a floating target and then against land.
With combat readiness in mind, the PHM also participated in an anti-surface warfare exercise, coordinating the actions of a task group consisting of the PHA Mistral, Commandant Bouan, and two Panther helicopters, against the FREMM Languedoc, a Caiman Marine helicopter, and the VN Rebel. Excellent training for the bridge and operations center teams.
Finally, accustomed to autonomous missions, the PHM (Patrol Boat Helicopter) seized opportunities for maneuvering training. Two towing operations were conducted with the metropolitan support and assistance vessel (BSAM) Loire. The following day, a replenishment at sea with the replenishment ship (BRF) Jacques Stosskopf brought together the oldest and newest of the Toulon-based vessels. Beyond the training aspect for the PHM, the objective was also to develop the skills of the young sailors on board who had never had the opportunity to perform these maneuvers, which are part of the DNA of the Naval Action Force.
After an intense week, Commandant Bouan confidently approaches his final weeks of preparation for a future deployment.