The French Navy’s Jeanne d’Arc mission recently made a stop in Cape Town, reinforcing longstanding ties between France and South Africa.
The Jeanne d’Arc mission is an annual deployment dedicated to training French naval officer cadets while combining operational experience with international engagement. On board the amphibious assault ship cadets continue their at-sea training programme, gaining exposure to maritime operations, navigation and joint exercises.
The vessel also carried NH90 helicopters, providing operational capability and enhancing the training environment for embarked air and naval crews. These aircraft support transport, maritime surveillance and tactical operations at sea.
During the Cape Town stopover cadets and crew engaged with South African counterparts, strengthening cooperation and exchanging knowledge with local defence and maritime partners. These interactions promote interoperability and mutual understanding between allied nations.
More than 800 French sailors visited Cape Town as the French Navy’s Jeanne d’Arc 2026 task group made a port call in Table Bay during a global deployment combining officer training, operational readiness and defence diplomacy.
The task group includes the amphibious assault ship FS Dixmude (L9015) and the frigate FS Aconit (F65). The deployment departed Toulon in February for a five-month voyage spanning the Mediterranean, Red Sea, East Africa, Indian Ocean and Atlantic.
Embarked are approximately 600 personnel including 162 naval officer cadets as well as army soldiers, helicopter detachments and drone operators. The aviation component includes NH90 and Gazelle helicopters along with unmanned aerial systems, providing a full-spectrum operational training environment.
The Cape Town stop also includes professional exchanges with the South African Navy focused on maritime cooperation and shared regional interests. The visit highlights France’s commitment to international collaboration and the development of future naval leaders while strengthening maritime security ties in the region.
