GEN-FAM PHOTOGRAPHY

IHEDN 2020

The 14th of October 2020, the Institute for Advanced National Defense Studies (IHEDN) organized a visit to the 105th Commandant Viot Air Base in Évreux, offering attendees an immersion into the operational capabilities of the French Air and Space Force (AAE).

A day dedicated to discovering the capabilities of the AAE

Under the leadership of Colonel Solène Le Floch, base commander, participants were welcomed for a detailed presentation of the AAE's missions and equipment. General Stéphane Mille, Chief of Staff of the AAE, highlighted the Air Force's evolution towards a component that now integrates space, illustrating this transformation with recent operations such as Hamilton, Apagan, and Barkhane.

Static and Dynamic Demonstrations

The morning was devoted to static displays, allowing attendees to closely observe aircraft such as the Rafale, the A330 Phénix MRTT, and the Casa. The afternoon offered a dynamic demonstration, featuring various engagement scenarios, including the interception of a hostile aircraft and the extraction of nationals in an emergency situation. Participants had the opportunity to experience these situations as extras, aboard an A400M Atlas.

An overview of the AAE's equipment in 2020

In 2020, the AAE had a diverse fleet, including 217 fighter aircraft, 118 transport aircraft, 20 operational support aircraft, 75 helicopters, 148 training aircraft, and 20 surface-to-air weapons systems. Notable acquisitions included 50 Rafale F3Rs, 12 Reaper drones, three A400M Atlases, and two KC-130Js.

Conclusion

This day at Évreux Air Base 105 provided IHEDN attendees with an in-depth understanding of the missions and capabilities of the French Air and Space Force, strengthening ties between the defense community and civil society.

Bonus catch

In more of the activity of the day, we was lucky to catch a C-160G Gabriel (Air Force for Jamming, Search, and Electronic Identification). This type of aircraft is used for gathering signals intelligence. It accommodates a dedicated team of operators in addition to the crew and is refuelable in flight.

I would like to particularly thank the French Air Force & Ba 105 personnel for their accessibility and kindness, without their accreditations these pictures would not have been possible !

Thank you for your trust without which this inside tour would not have been possible.

More pictures here : : https://flic.kr/s/aHsmRyT1t5

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