By Defence Circle/Images:Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace
The French and Egyptian Air Forces have conducted high-altitude aerial manoeuvres as part of the final phase of France’s PEGASE 2026 mission in Egypt, strengthening bilateral military cooperation through the AMUN 26 exercise.
The exercise brings French aircraft together with Egyptian Rafale, F-16 and MiG-29 fighter aircraft in a comprehensive training scenario designed to enhance operational coordination and combat readiness.
Training activities include air-to-air combat and air superiority missions alongside day and night aerial refuelling operations using different aircraft-to-aircraft refuelling techniques. The exercise also integrates France’s Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft and A400M military transport aircraft into tactical training scenarios.
The participation of these aircraft allows French and Egyptian crews to practise complex missions involving fighter aircraft, aerial refuelling and tactical airlift capabilities. Such training is important for improving interoperability between the two air forces and ensuring that personnel can operate together effectively during demanding operational scenarios.
The AMUN 26 exercise forms part of broader defence cooperation between France and Egypt, two countries that maintain military ties and share strategic interests in regional security.
According to the French announcement, the exercise highlights the trust and close cooperation between the two armed forces, particularly in supporting stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Red Sea, regions of considerable strategic importance due to their maritime routes and proximity to the Middle East.
The final phase of PEGASE 2026 underscores France’s continued engagement with regional partners and provides an opportunity to strengthen operational relationships through combined air operations. For Egypt, participation alongside French aircraft offers further opportunities to train with an allied air force and refine coordination across a range of air combat and support missions.
Through AMUN 26, France and Egypt continue to develop their military partnership, with combined training focused on air superiority, aerial refuelling and tactical integration.