US Navy pens deal with French Navy to bolster “plug and fight” capabilities

On 17 December, the US Navy and the French Navy signed Strategic Interoperability Framework to strengthen their ability to “plug and fight” as global navies.

As informed, Rear Admiral Christophe Lucas signed the agreement on behalf of the French Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Pierre Vandier. Representing the US Navy, Vice Adm. Bill Merz signed the deal on behalf of the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Admiral Michael Gilday. The agreement was signed via video conference.

This agreement is a result of work initiated two years ago. It sets specific objectives intended to continuously improve, over the next 20 years, the interoperability between the two navies.

It also facilitates contacts between the staff and provides for the establishment of the framework authorizing the exchange of information and classified data, according to the French Navy.

“This agreement marks a very significant step forward and the culmination of a common desire to strengthen cooperation between the two navies, despite the rough seas that the two countries have recently crossed.”