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First FDI frigate for the French Navy continues sea trials.
First FDI frigate for the French Navy continues sea trials
France’s new FDI frigate “Amiral Ronarc’h” is back at sea for a second set of sea trials from December 2nd to 20th, 2024. Propulsion tests are over and the first-in-class new generation ship is now operated by the French Navy crew.
French Navy press release – Translation from French by Naval News
For three weeks, industry and government (DGA and French Navy) are testing the ship’s combat system, including the CATPAS-4 variable depth sonar, which enables deep underwater detection, the STIR fire control radar, which provides targeting for the 76mm gun, and the SEAFIRE multifunction radar. This new-generation fixed-panel radar developed by Thales offers particularly advanced 360° air and surface surveillance and detection capabilities. It is designed to simultaneously track multiple targets, including supersonic missiles.
These cutting-edge systems ensure the FDI’s versatility, positioning it as a major asset for the French Navy in its contemporary missions through to high-intensity engagements. This new class of ships will be able to cope with air, surface and submarine threats, while being natively protected against cyber threats.
This sea trial is part of a series of trials to prepare the delivery of the FDI Amiral Ronarc’h to the French Navy in 2025.
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Naval News Comments:
As previously reported by Naval News, the FDI frigate Amiral Ronarc’h carried out her first sea trials in October.
The keel laying of the first FDI took place in December 2021 and the launch in November 2022. The next five ships in the series (three for the Hellenic Navy and two for the French Navy) are still expected be delivered before 2030.
A total of five vessels are set to be delivered to France (three hulls already on order, the remaining two ships will be ordered later on). In addition, three frigates are currently under construction for Greece, with an option for a fourth unit which could be enforced soon.
Lastly, France is among four countries down-selected for an ASW frigate requirement in Norway. Naval Group is pitching the FDI to the Nordic country, as well as to Saudi Arabia and Indonesia.
Technical specifications:
- displacement: 4,500 tons
- length: 122 meters
- beam: 18 meters
- max. speed: 27 knots
- autonomy: 45 days
- operational availability: 3,500 hours per year
- accomodation: 125-persons crew + 28 passengers
- aviation facility: 10 ton-class helicopter, VTOL unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
The main weapon systems of the FDI are:
- Non-lethal weapon systems
- 16 Aster surface to air missiles developed by MBDA
- 8 Exocet MM40 Block 3c anti-ship missiles developed by MBDA
- MU 90 torpedoes developed by Naval Group
- 76 mm gun
- 2 Narwhal 20mm remote weapon stations
- 4 torpedo tubes
- CANTO counter measures developed by Naval Group
