France will place an aircraft carrier under NATO command for the first time.

France will place its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle under NATO command for the first time for exercises in April, Europe 1 radio reports.

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From April 26, the aircraft carrier will take part in exercises in the Mediterranean Sea for 15 days, the radio station reported, citing the head of the General Staff.

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“This is the first time that we are placing the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, along with all accompanying vessels, including a nuclear submarine, under the operational control of NATO on the occasion of operational vigilance activities, which is more significant than the exercises themselves,” the media quoted the French Vice Admiral Didier Maleterre. He added that this “step, however, does not mean France loses its strategic autonomy.”

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American, Greek, Spanish and Portuguese ships will also take part in the exercises.

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In total, about 15 countries will take part in the StrikforNato exercises under the command of the American vice admiral, which will last until May 10.