French aircraft to stop in Chad

French military aircraft, including two Mirage 2000 fighter jets and a CASA transport plane, will make a short technical stop in Chad as part of the GEX exercise, which is taking place in Côte d'Ivoire and Gabon from November 8 to November 30. The visit is described as a brief stop for training activities.

France and Chad rebuilding ties

This move comes nearly two years after Chad ended its defense agreement with France in November 2024, which had allowed French troops to be stationed in the country for nearly six decades. France subsequently withdrew its permanent military presence from Chad in January 2025.

France's stated goals

Colonel Xavier Rival, the spokesperson for the head of the French armed forces, stated that the purpose of the visit is to support efforts to reduce regional instability and to strengthen the capabilities of the Chadian air force. The stop is part of the GEX exercise, with both countries ensuring the activity respects Chad’s full sovereignty.

Improving relations after a break

Relations between France and Chad had worsened after Chad abruptly terminated its defense agreement in November 2024. However, tensions eased in January 2025 when Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.

New defense cooperation framework

On October 13, the two countries signed a statement of intent in Paris to rebuild their defense cooperation on new terms. The agreement, signed by both defense ministers, outlines plans to strengthen bilateral ties in areas such as training, technology, and military industry.