Egypt will acquire two French Mistral warships originally intended for Russia, the Elysée announced in a communiqué published on 23 September.

"The president had a meeting with President [Abdel Fattah Al-] Sissi. They agreed on principle and on the terms and conditions of the acquisition by Egypt of two projection and command Mistral ships", the communiqué from the Office of the French President explained.

The sale to Russia of two warships capable of transporting 610 men, 59 armoured vehicles, 1 helicopter and 2 aircraft, was cancelled due to the involvement of Russia in the Ukrainian crisis. France must refund over €1.1 billion to Russia for the acquisition of two warships, following an agreement struck between the two countries.

Cairo is interested in these warships in order to strengthen its naval force. Both vessels will be posted in the Red sea and Mediterranean sea. Strategic locations for Egypt, which carried out this summer the expansion of the Suez canal, and wishes to protect itself from the terrorist threat from its Libyan neighbour.