The typical air group is described as 30 to 40 aircraft, usually including about 30 Rafale M fighters and two E-2 Hawkeyes. Helicopters aboard escorts help the carrier concentrate on air defence and strike work. It still carries helicopters of its own, including NH90 Caïmans for anti-submarine work and Panther and Dauphin types for other roles. Troop capacity is given as up to 900, with 800 acknowledged as an alternative figure. About 500 tons of ammunition and the troop spaces add transport capacity to the carrier's aviation and command functions.
Chapter · 35:36-36:57
Rafales, helicopters, and space for troops
A typical air group of 30 to 40 aircraft concentrates on fighters and Hawkeyes while escorts share helicopter duties; additional capacity includes troops and ammunition.