The French Navy has deployed the Mistral-class helicopter carrier Dixmude to the Caribbean to provide logistical support for France's overseas territories in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The vessel's cargo consists of equipment and supplies that will aid the local authorities of the various territories in providing essential services and relief to affected citizens.
After offloading of the cargo, Dixmude and its embarked medical team will begin accommodating non-COVID-19 patients to allow local hospitals to commit more of their resources to treating those who have already contracted or have a high risk of contracting the disease.
Dixmude's deployment to the Caribbean comes less than two weeks after the navy confirmed that its sister vessel Tonnerre will sail for Corsica to help in the repatriation of 12 French citizens who had tested positive for the virus.
