French maritime base at Abu Dhabi goes live

May 27, 2009 · Posted in Blogroll, Uncategorized · Comment 

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Multiple news sources are reporting that, following Sarkozy’s inauguration ceremony, the new French maritime installation at the port of Abu Dhabi has officially commenced operations.

The so-called French Military Establishment in the United Arab Emirates (IMFEAU), also referred to as the “Maritime Peace Camp”, is located critically close to the straights of Hormuz and will enable French naval forces to operate with much greater autonomy in the Persian Gulf region, supported by air assets operating out of the nearby Al Dhafra airbase. (A detachment of at least 3 fighters and support aircraft will reportedly be stationed permanently).

"Through this military base — the first in the Middle East — France is ready to shoulder its responsibilities to ensure stability in this strategic region," Sarkozy said in an interview with the state news agency WAM.

Not coincidentally, the French continue to lobby the UAE for a possible order of up to 60 Rafale fighters to replace the Emirate’s fleet of ~60 Mirage-2000s.

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