The new defense and intervention class unit expands the French program launched in 2017 and strengthens the strategy based on ships designed for multi-mission, high-intensity warfare, air defense, anti-submarine warfare and combating asymmetric threats.
The French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) ordered the Naval Group company, the fifth defense and intervention frigate (FDI), which is another step in the modernization of the French Navy. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Armed Forces and Veterans, the order was finalized on March 31, 2026.
The FDI program is a DGA He has led it since 2017 and aims to strengthen the French surface forces with modern, multi-role warships that rely on advanced technologies. The program was boosted by the first unit, the Amiral Ronarc’h with the delivery of the frigate on October 17, 2025. The ship is already participating in long-term deployments, while the delivery of additional units is expected between 2027 and 2032.
According to the statement, the FDI frigates are designed for use in multiple operational environments. Their missions include surface warfare, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, countering asymmetric threats, cyber warfare and special forces projection. The French concept aims to deploy ships capable of operating in complex and high-intensity environments, combining combat capabilities, tactical flexibility and large-scale data processing on a single platform.
The weapon package of the class includes the Exocet MM40 B3c anti-ship missiles, Aster 15 and Aster 30 anti-aircraft missiles, MU90 torpedoes, and 20 mm and 76 mm artillery systems. The frigates are capable of simultaneously operating helicopters and drones, as well as deploying special forces with two command boats.
Another prominent element of the project is the digital architecture. FDI ships have a cyber-secure and redundant data center that supports the ship’s operations and combat system. The design also includes a separate station to deal with asymmetric threats, such as mini-drones and suicide boats, separate from the operations center responsible for other combat areas.
In terms of sensors, the frigate integrates all airborne sensors into a single mast, ensuring continuous 360-degree surveillance. The ship is also the first in the French Navy to be equipped with a SEAFIRE fixed-panel radar manufactured by Thales, as well as state-of-the-art sonars and other sensors for air and surface defense.
The French government emphasizes that FDI is already considered successful in the international market, and that the client countries appreciate its high level of performance. The new order not only strengthens the renewal of the French fleet, but also the strategic importance of the program for the French naval defense industry.
+ The Broad Arrow auction features over 30 iconic cars and historic collectible models
Source and image: French Ministry of Armed Forces / Naval Group. This content is generated with the help of artificial intelligence and verified by the editors
