ORION 26: 12,000 Allied troops converge in France for high-intensity drills
The French Armed Forces have launched a comprehensive three-month military mobilization to demonstrate France’s resolve in protecting its territory, citizens, and strategic interests.
Operation "ORION 26" is a high-intensity, multi-disciplinary joint exercise involving land, sea, air, cyber, space, and electromagnetic domains. According to Radio România Actualități, the drills also integrate the military’s full logistics and supply chains.
The exercise tests civilian institutional resilience under wartime conditions. Multiple ministries and institutional stakeholders are participating to simulate a total-state response to modern conflict.
The scenario, while fictional, aligns with NATO standards. It focuses on a conflict in Europe where an expansionist adversary, "Mercury," attempts to destabilize its neighbor, "Arland," to prevent its accession to the European Union.
France assumed command of the ORION coalition in January 2026 following a request from the besieged ally. The mission aims to restore European stability and deter hybrid operations conducted by foreign-backed militias.
The mobilization includes 12,000 personnel and thousands of armored vehicles. The initial phase involves the deployment of hundreds of French troops, followed by a surge of international allied forces.
According to Digi24, the operation features 140 aircraft, primarily Rafale fighter jets. A naval task force of 25 vessels, led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, provides critical strike capabilities.
This massive exercise arrives amid escalating international tensions. In total, 24 nations are participating, including the United States and several key NATO allies, as Paris prepares its forces for the complexities of modern warfare.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
