The location of France’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle was inadvertently revealed online after a sailor used a fitness tracking app to log a workout, highlighting potential security vulnerabilities for modern naval operations. The incident, which occurred on March 13, underscores the challenges of maintaining operational secrecy in an era where personal technology is widespread.
According to reports, a young naval officer recorded a run of just over 7 kilometers (approximately 4.3 miles) on the ship’s deck using a smartwatch connected to the Strava fitness application. The activity, lasting around 35-36 minutes, was uploaded to a public profile, effectively broadcasting the vessel’s position in real time. Le Monde first reported the security breach.
Le Monde was able to verify the carrier’s location using satellite imagery taken shortly after the run, pinpointing the 262-meter vessel northwest of Cyprus, roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the Turkish coast. The data allowed anyone with access to the public Strava profile to track the ship and its accompanying fleet.
The Charles de Gaulle was deployed to the eastern Mediterranean on March 3, amid heightened tensions related to conflicts involving the US and Israel with Iran. While the carrier’s deployment was publicly known, its precise location was not intended for public disclosure. Times Now News detailed the circumstances surrounding the leak.
The French Armed Forces General Staff confirmed that the activity violated digital security protocols, stating it was “not in compliance with current instructions” and that “appropriate measures will be taken by the command.” The incident is not isolated, with reports indicating at least one other crew member on a French naval vessel currently deployed had also publicly shared geolocated activity, including images of the ship’s deck and onboard equipment. Greek City Times also reported on the security lapse.
The Charles de Gaulle is the only French nuclear-powered aircraft carrier currently in operation, making its location particularly sensitive. The development underscores growing regional tensions and the potential risks associated with the use of personal devices by military personnel.
