Since October 2025, the 3rd Company of the French Foreign Legion’s 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment (2e REP) has been deployed to New Caledonia, a French overseas territory in the Pacific, on a Short-Term Mission (Mission de Courte Durée, MCD).

During their four-month rotation, the legionnaires have served as the Parachute Company (COMPARA) of the New Caledonia Pacific Marine Infantry Regiment (RIMaP-NC), a regiment primarily composed of rotational units from mainland France. The regiment’s responsibilities include maintaining order and a French military presence in the region, conducting daily training, supporting the local population, and carrying out joint military exercises with U.S., Australian, New Zealand, and other regional forces.

During their deployment, the REPmen — as Legion paratroopers refer to themselves — took part in a range of activities. In November, they participated in Armistice Day ceremonies. In December, they joined the RIMaP-NC Christmas challenges and celebrated both Christmas and New Year in the Pacific.

In January 2026, a part of the company deployed to the island of Lifou, the largest coral island in the world, located about 60 miles (100 km) east of New Caledonia’s main island. They visited the tribal village of Luecila, where they assisted the local community with construction work. Later, they also attended a commemoration ceremony at the administrative center of Wé. The ceremony marked the 80th anniversary of the return of the local Bataillon du Pacifique (Pacific Battalion) that fought in Europe during World War II and took part in the liberation of France.

The 3rd Company of the 2nd REP is expected to conclude its deployment in New Caledonia by the end of February 2026.

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