TROOP REVIEW: Operation Serval - French in Mali

Since January 11, 2013, French troops have been actively supporting the internationally recognized government in Mali against Islamist insurgents under the name Operation Serval (named after an African wildcat). In addition to purely French units, the Foreign Legion (pictured above) is also part of the contingent. With this showcase, we at SPARTANAT want to give you a brief overview of what the "Bleus" have taken with them...

The standard weapon of the French infantryman is the assault rifle FAMAS. For fire support, FN Minimi LMGs are also carried. The trousers of the soldiers feature desert camouflage reserved for special forces in the past (often referred to as "Daguet"), while the top is in the common CE camouflage pattern. The plate carrier is a French version of the CIRAS Land.

For sniper missions, regular units have a choice of two weapons: the heavy PGM Hecate II in .50 BMG caliber (front) and the FR-F2 in 7.62x51 NATO caliber (rear). The soldiers wear the CGF Gallet helmet made of Spectra.

As almost everywhere, French special forces have more freedom in choosing their equipment. This member of the CPA (Commando Parachutiste de l'Air) is wearing a uniform in A-TACS AU and a plate carrier in Multicam. Also visible is the stock of his HK 416. The helmet could be an AirFrame by Crye.

For quicker movement, the French mainly use the two vehicles shown above. In the foreground is the Panhard VBL (Light Armored Vehicle), a lightly armored vehicle usually equipped with a 7.62x51mm machine gun and capable of reaching a maximum speed of 95 km/h. Behind it is a VAB (Armored Front-Line Vehicle), the standard troop carrier providing protection for up to 10 infantrymen and capable of reaching speeds of 90 km/h.

Two more armored vehicles are also part of the convoy. On the left is the AMX 10RC, a light wheeled tank with a 105mm cannon that has been in service since the mid-70s. On the right is the VBCI (Infantry Fighting Vehicle), equipped with a 25mm machine gun and capable of transporting 8 infantrymen. The older model has a top speed of 85 km/h, while the newer model can reach 100 km/h.

Special forces typically prioritize mobility and firepower, and therefore have their own light but well-armed vehicles. The Panhard VPS SAS seen above was introduced specifically to meet these requirements. Also clearly visible is the HK416 of the passenger, now the preferred weapon of the French SF (aside from Commando Marine).