Special to WorldTribune.com
The United States is providing critical support for France’s aircraft carrier in the Persian Gulf.
The U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet, based in Bahrain, resupplied France’s Charles De Gaulle carrier, which began operations in the Gulf last month as part of the U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL).
“The Navy Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) in Bahrain helped the aircraft carrier and three accompanying French ships maintain mission readiness by providing transportation and logistical support,” the U.S. Navy said in a statement.
“The port call in Bahrain provided sailors with a much needed opportunity to unwind off the ship as well as receive critical supplies.”
The three other French ships resupplied during the port call included air defense destroyer Chevalier Paul (D621), anti-submarine frigate La Motte-Picquet (D645) and command and supply ship Marne (A630).
According to French Navy Lt. Guillaume Florczyka, 80 per cent of the resupplied parts were for aircraft and are critical to the navy’s mission.
“It is difficult to get supplies out on mission and not be able to make port calls at our usual ports,” Florczyka said. “It is easier for us to work with NAVSUP FLC Bahrain than with civilian agencies.”
NAVSUP FLC Bahrain Executive Director Brian Sterner said “our support of Charles De Gaulle is yet another demonstration of the flexibility, reliability and expertise of the NAVSUP FLC Bahrain team.”