French Naval Group Heading to Syria Sends Sub on Patrol in Mediterranean

An unnamed French submarine is on patrol in the Mediterranean as the French-led naval group, made up of at least eight warships, is nearing the Syrian coast to take part in the anti-ISIL campaign, La Provence reported.

The nuclear-powered sub is part of the group led by the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. Other ships include a Horizon-class frigate, Chevalier Paul, and a Belgian frigate, the Leopold I.

By the end of the week, a F70 type anti-submarine frigate, La Motte-Picquet, as well as a Durance-class tanker, Marne, and an Aquitaine-class frigate will join the group, the media outlet added. A Royal Navy warship, the HMS Defender, and an Australian frigate are also expected to assist the Charles de Gaulle.

Flight deck crew work around a Rafale (L) and a Super Etendard fighter jets as a French flag flies aboard the French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle before its departure from the naval base of Toulon, France, November 18, 2015

© REUTERS / Jean-Paul Pelissier

France is part of a multi-national coalition aimed at destroying the self-styled Islamic State.

Paris, however, pledged to boost its counterterrorism efforts in Syria following a series of attacks in Paris on November 13. The terrorist acts, allegedly conducted by ISIL, claimed the lives of at least 129 people and left hundreds wounded.

Earlier this week, Russia and France agreed to coordinate their counterterrorism efforts in Syria. As soon as the Charles de Gaulle reaches its destination, both countries are expected to create a joint work group.

Next week, French President Francois Hollande will discuss the anti-ISIL campaign with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

Islamic State

© Sputnik