French naval patrols are under scrutiny after a recent incident in the English Channel involving alleged warning shots near a British vessel; the service has long carried out patrols, training, and deterrence missions to secure maritime routes and respond to regional crises.
Multiple outlets report that while Chris Philp was being interviewed about small-boat crossings in the English Channel, a French warship conducted a handgun firing exercise near Boulogne. Philp describes the moment as “warning shots or intimidation,” while French officials say the procedure was routine and unrelated to the British vessel. The UK government says it is seeking facts from France.