NATO forces intercepted a suspected Russian drone heading toward France’s 800-foot-long aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle.
It was described as a “serious security” incident in Malmö, Sweden, Sveriges Television (SVT) reported today.
The drone was seen approaching the carrier, the only nuclear-powered vessel completed outside of the US Navy.
It was docked in Malmö for a planned exercise when Swedish forces saw a drone take off from a nearby Russian ship and head toward it.
The French Navy’s flagship Charles de Gaulle is visiting as part of mission LA FAYETTE 26, working with NATO and regional allies to improve security at sea.
A few days ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin warned his adversaries how things could end if they resort to using a “nuclear element” in any attack against Moscow.
Swedish forces initiated a jamming operation aimed at disrupting the drone’s signal, after which the aircraft disappeared from radar and out of sight.
It remains unclear whether the drone managed to return to the Russian ship or whether it crashed into the sea.
The carrier, named after former French President and General Charles de Gaulle, typically carries around 2,000 sailors and military personnel, along with approximately 30 fighter jets as part of its air wing.
