Chad is preparing to host two French fighter jets of the "Mirage 2000" type and a military transport plane of the "Casa" type. This move signifies the resumption of military cooperation between N'Djamena and Paris, which had been suspended for nearly two years. The development comes amid security tensions along Chad's borders, particularly with Libya, Niger, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
According to the French magazine "Jeune Afrique," the Chadian Armed Forces confirmed on October 29 that the French aircraft would soon arrive in the country. The visit is expected to be short and is part of a scheduled military maneuver from November 8 to 30. The exercise will involve around 30 military personnel from Côte d'Ivoire and Gabon and will include training activities.
This move is the first of its kind since Chad announced on November 28, 2024, the termination of its military cooperation agreement with France. The agreement's end led to the withdrawal of nearly 1,000 French soldiers by the end of January 2025. The French military bases used by the French forces were also returned to Chad.
Despite the termination of the agreement, military relations between the two countries have not been completely severed. Some training and military communication activities have continued. Chad's President, Mohamed Idriss Déby Itno, visited the Élysée Palace twice this year, on January 29 and October 13.
The recent developments reflect a reevaluation of relations between N'Djamena and Paris, with efforts to establish a new form of military cooperation. Chad faces security challenges along its borders with several countries in the region and needs to enhance its security partnerships.
The return of French aircraft, although limited in scope, represents France's reestablishment of a military foothold in the Sahel region. France has stated that it is resuming cooperation with Chad while respecting its sovereignty. This development indicates that the two countries are moving towards rebuilding their security relations after a period of tension.
The resumption of military cooperation between Chad and France occurs as the region faces ongoing security challenges. Chad's hosting of French fighter jets is seen as a strategic move to bolster its security capabilities amid tensions with neighboring countries, particularly Libya.
Key points
- Chad to host French fighter jets and a military transport plane, marking a resumption of military cooperation between the two countries.
- The development comes amid security tensions along Chad's borders, particularly with Libya, Niger, Sudan, and the Central African Republic.
- The move reflects a reevaluation of relations between N'Djamena and Paris, with efforts to establish a new form of military cooperation.
