The Egyptian and French Armed Forces launched ‘Ramses 2022’ joint naval and air drill that will last for several days in Egypt, according to a statement from Egyptian Military Spokesperson Gharib Abdel Hafez on Monday.

Abdel Hafez explained that the French side is participating in the training with its Charles de Gaulle helicopter carrier, an accompanying combat group, and a number of Rafale fighter jets.

As for the Egyptian side, it is participating with a naval formation of frigates, missile launchers, and units of the Egyptian naval special forces, in addition to a number of fighter jets, including F-16s, Rafales, and MIG-29s.

The drills include a number of military activities to train the naval and air forces of both countries in planning and management of joint combat operations so as to unify operational concepts, hone field skills, exchange combat expertise as well as prepare to carry out joint missions.

Abdel Hafez said that the drill comes as part of the growing relations of partnership and military cooperation between the Egyptian and French Armed Forces and to enhance their ability to face challenges in the region and secure vital objectives in the Mediterranean.

The Ramses 2022 drills are part of the increasing partnerships and military cooperation between the Egyptian and French armed forces to overcome any challenges in the region and secure vital objectives in the Mediterranean, the statement said.

The training activities were attended by a number of top military brass and the French Military Attaché in Cairo.