Constant operational presence

Corymbe Mission 

Operational capability in the Gulf of Guinea is characterised by the constant presence of a naval force that is able to detect and prevent a crisis and, if necessary, intervene in the area at short notice. In this way, French Navy vessels contribute to the protection of French nationals – both military personnel and civilians – living or working in this part of Africa. To this end, a French Navy vessel remains in the region at all times, ready, if needed, to help evacuate French nationals and the citizens of other countries, European or otherwise. Since 1990, a warship has "kept watch" in the region between Senegal and Angola as part of the Corymbe mission.

The mission also provides an opportunity to organise exercises in cooperation with local naval forces, develop bilateral exchanges with the African nations visited and, where necessary, deliver humanitarian assistance. These activities support other efforts aimed at building up African peacekeeping capabilities.