French Navy Exposes Pakistan’s Deception Yet Again

The recent military tensions between India and Pakistan have once again highlighted the reliance on misinformation in the media. In this instance, a report by Pakistan’s Geo TV claimed that French Naval Commander Captain Jacques Launay endorsed Pakistan’s supposed air superiority during the May conflict. However, this claim was swiftly debunked by the French Navy.

French Navy Debunks Pakistani Claims

The contentious article misrepresented remarks made by Captain Launay, who is the commander of the Naval Air Base at Landivisiau. The report falsely stated that he confirmed the downing of Indian Rafale fighter jets during Operation Sindoor. This operation involved significant military actions where India targeted terrorist groups along the Line of Control.

Specifics of the Misinformation

• The article inaccurately reported that Captain Launay praised Pakistan’s military actions.
• It claimed these statements were made at an Indo-Pacific conference.
• The French Navy labeled the article as “FAKENEWS” and condemned the inaccuracies.

The French Navy clearly stated that Captain Launay had never authorized any publication of statements attributed to him. They emphasized that he did not confirm any Indian aircraft being shot down and neither did he comment on the involvement of Chinese jamming systems during the conflict.

Corrections from the French Military

The Navy pointed out further inaccuracies in the reporting, including a misidentification of the commander’s first name. The proper name is Yvan, not Jacques. They clarified that his duties are limited to managing the air station where Rafale Marine aircraft are based.

Context of Operation Sindoor

• Operation Sindoor occurred in May as a response to a terror attack in Pahalgam.
• India’s military reported the elimination of over a hundred terrorists during this offensive.
• Six Pakistani aircraft were shot down during engagements with Indian forces, according to statements from the Indian air chief.

This incident demonstrates the ongoing struggle for narrative control in the region, particularly for Pakistan, which has often resorted to exaggerated claims about its military capabilities. The swift dismissal of their claims by the French Navy leaves Islamabad’s military narrative in jeopardy.