Russian Drone Approaches French Aircraft Carrier During NATO Exercise in Malmö

A Russian drone reportedly approached the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle while it was docked in Malmö, Sweden, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, prompting a response from Swedish defense forces. The incident occurred during NATO exercise activities, highlighting increased tensions and security concerns in the region.

Incident Details

According to Swedish broadcaster SVT, the drone originated from a nearby Russian vessel and moved towards the Charles de Gaulle. Swedish military personnel detected the drone and employed jamming techniques to disrupt its radio and GPS signals . Following the jamming, the drone retreated from the area, with its final destination – whether a return to the Russian vessel or a crash into the sea – remaining unclear.

Charles de Gaulle Visit and NATO Exercises

The Charles de Gaulle, the world’s largest nuclear-powered aircraft carrier outside of U.S. Ownership, arrived in Malmö as part of NATO’s regular exercise program . The carrier, which typically carries around 2,000 sailors and military personnel along with approximately 30 combat aircraft, is scheduled to participate in exercises throughout the spring in the Baltic Sea, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, and Mediterranean Sea . These exercises aim to bolster the Alliance’s defense capabilities and collective deterrence.

Strengthened Cooperation

The Swedish Armed Forces stated that the visit demonstrates strong cooperation with France and strengthens operational capabilities, contributing to the collective defense of Europe . The Dutch frigate HNLMS Evertsen is too berthed in Malmö harbor, with additional elements of the carrier strike group moored in Copenhagen . This marks the first time the Charles de Gaulle and its strike group have visited Sweden.

Regional Security Context

The deployment of the Charles de Gaulle to the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea is part of “Mission Lafayette 26” and occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions and shifts . NATO missions are focused on deterring threats to underwater infrastructure and conducting multinational exercises in the Baltic and Arctic regions .

The Swedish Defense Forces have not yet commented on the specific countermeasures used against the Russian drone .