Canada and France Train Together in the Cold
Video / April 7, 2026
Transcript
(JB) When we get to area H, even if we’re not in position, we’ll be able to take action on the road quickly...
This morning, we started a new exercise, it is APOLLON NORDIQUE. The purpose of the exercise is really to develop our skills for cold weather operations. We have 50 members from the 4e Régiment de chasseurs de France and 75 members from the Canadian Forces.
They’re really looking for harsher climates. In Canada, our temperatures are a lot colder than in France. That’s something they can’t really train for in their own country. That’s why they’re coming to get that expertise from the Canadian Forces.
(G) We were able to set up our overnight shelter and spend a night in roughly -30 temperatures, which is not something we’re used to.
(JB) What they’re really going to learn is how to manage humidity so they don’t get cold at night because, during the day, we move around a lot. I’ve already gotten lots of comments like: in the daytime, we’re fine with the sun, but as soon as the sun sets, the temperature changes drastically.
(GDR) So, we’re part of the mountain units. In the mountain unit, we’re training for cold-weather combat. What we’re looking for here is the expertise from the Canadians, who know how to fight here, so we can exchange, learn and develop our skills.
There’s less of a difference in elevation than what we’re used to in France, but we’re compensating with the cold weather that we don’t really get in France over extended periods like we’re going to have here for a month.
(G) Yesterday, for example, we deployed two French platoons with part of a Canadian squad for the exercise. We used a wide variety of different transports, snowmobiles, a Chinook helicopter to deploy, and transport trucks.
After that we had a tactical exercise phase, which allowed us to work on interoperability and work together on some essential skills.
(JB) Can we enter? OK, Let’s go.
Is there any wounded? Dead?
It’s allowing us to build a relationship with another NATO country, and it’s also preparing us for deployment in a multinational context.
The 4e Régiment de chasseurs was very cooperative, ready to put in the effort needed to deploy 50 members here. So, it’s mission accomplished for the deployment and logistics, and we’re happy to have them here with us.
Do you have a toque? Put your toque on.
(X) It’s in my bag.
(X) Everyone look forward.
(GDR) There’s one big problem, that’s the Canadian accent.
(X) Ok hand over my toque.
(GDR) I’m just kidding, there’s no problem.