France sends warships to South China Sea ahead of exercise with U.S. and Japan

French warships to be in disputed waterway twice over next three months amid the Jeanne d’Arc Campaign 2021. The French Navy said the amphibious assault ship Tonnere, and the frigate Surcouf would pass through the disputed waters twice. Commander says the ships will work to strengthen France’s partnership with the four Quad nations. France is stepping up its military presence in the South China Sea by planning two voyages through the disputed waters. The French navy said an amphibious assault ship the Tonnere and the frigate Surcouf had left their home port Toulon on Thursday and would travel to the…