GDF strengthens regional defence ties with French armed forces

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) continues to enhance its regional security partnerships, following its recent participation in Exercise Fer de Lance 2025 in French Guiana.
This major multinational military training exercise focused on building interoperability, tactical readiness, and collaborative response to common threats.
Building on that momentum, a high-level GDF delegation led by Colonel General Staff, Captain (Coast Guard) Vernon Bernett, was hosted aboard the French helicopter carrier Mistral and cruiser class La Fayette Surcouf on April 1, 2025.
The delegation was airlifted from Base Camp Ayanganna onto the Mistral by a French Army COUGAR helicopter, marking the first-ever landing of a French military aircraft in Guyana, as well as a French vessel in its waters, symbolising a new chapter in defence relations between the two nations.
During the visit, the GDF officials joined French Ambassador Nicolas Bouillane de Lacoste, Chargé d’Affaires Jean-Jacques Forte, and Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Jean-Marc Moulin, for a presentation on the Mistral’s capabilities, as well as those of the Surcouf frigate, visible from the ship’s bridge.
One key highlight of the visit was a briefing on the successful “Operation Corymbe”, which recently led to the interception of the Guyana-flagged vessel Solo and the seizure of over six tons of narcotics.
The operation was a direct result of strong collaboration between French and Guyanese authorities, including the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), showcasing the value of continued joint efforts.
These engagements reflect the GDF’s growing regional presence and its commitment to working closely with allies to secure peace and stability across the Guiana Shield and Caribbean region.