On November 17, 2023, the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) ordered seven offshore patrol vessels intended for the French Navy. This order is the subject of three contracts for a total amount of 900 million euros.
Three markets for a total amount of 900 million euros
The production contract was notified to the temporary group of companies composed of CMN, Piriou and Socarenam. A contract for project management assistance and construction of the combat management system has been awarded to Naval Group. Thales has also been awarded a contract to equip the first seven offshore patrol vessels with the latest generation of maritime surveillance equipment: Bluewatcher hull sonar , compact multi-mission surveillance radar and IFF – friend/enemy identification system.
An innovative acquisition strategy
Positioning itself as overall project manager of the program, the DGA has chosen to make the most of national skills in the field of development, construction and supply of naval equipment and systems. The first stage of the offshore patrol program, based on the acquisition of seven vessels, will fill a deficit in the second-rate vessel segment, taking into account the disarmament of offshore patrol vessels that has already taken place, and will initiate the rise in power of these buildings on each of the three metropolitan facades: Brest, Toulon and Cherbourg.
Patrol boats with unrivaled performance
In a context marked by the increase in maritime traffic and the tightening of threats at sea, patrol boats fulfill a very broad spectrum of missions: support for deterrence, presence in areas of sovereignty and interest, evacuation, protection, escort and intervention in state action at sea.
Adapted to a semi-permissive environment, the offshore patrol vessels will be distinguished in particular by a solid information processing capacity, efficient seakeeping and will be able to deploy in the long term a helicopter or a drone suitable for missions. aeromaritimes.
An order in compliance with the 2024-2030 military programming law
Ten offshore patrol vessels are expected to be in service by 2035, with a first delivery planned for 2026. They are intended to replace the offshore patrol vessels (PHM) based in Brest and Toulon, as well as the Cherbourg public service patrol vessels.