Naval Group performed a new launch of the F21 torpedo in the frame of the Artémis program led by the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA). In the medium term, the DGA aims to equip all French Navy submarines with this next generation heavyweight torpedo.
Naval Group image.
This launch was performed in early May from a French Navy Rubis-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN). The F21 was launched under the authority of the DGA in a DGA Missiles Testing’s underwater acoustic range near Toulon.
"This new successful test from a nuclear submarine is part of the F21 qualification process and reinforces our confidence in the reliability of the torpedo, which was nevertheless subject to a particularly demanding operational test scenario", explains Damien Raby, director of Naval Group's Underwater Weapons Business Unit. The F21 used for the test was identical to the combat torpedo currently under production, of which several tens of units will be delivered to the French Navy as of 2019.
The launch was performed in accordance with the procedure and the communication with the launcher was operational throughout the exercise. The data recorded in real time gave a full overview of the entire mission, thus validating the achievement of all objectives.
Our video report on the F21 torpedo.
Artémis, an innovative programme in the area of heavy torpedoes
The objective of the F21 Torpedo program is to replace the F17 with a new generation, more agile, faster, smarter and more operationalperformance torpedo.
The F21 heavy torpedo was designed to neutralize enemy ships and submarines. With an exceptional range and speed, the F21 torpedo is planned to evolve by sea bottom but also and especially in the very noisy and very dense coastal areas in maritime traffic.
With a very high computing power that gives it exceptional real-time processing capabilities, the F21 torpedo benefits from an advanced mission system and increased autonomy. These technical features greatly broaden the possibilities of tactical employment with outstanding target discrimination ability especially in difficult environments.
The contract includes the development and delivery of a hundred of F21 torpedoes as well as their integration on theFrench submarines.
The Brazilian Navy has also selected the F21 to equip its submarines.
About the F21 torpedo
The F21 torpedo is the world's only new development in the heavy torpedo category. It boasts characteristics that far exceed all other heavy torpedoes currently in service. Over and above its exceptional performance levels, the on-board tactical intelligence makes this torpedo a precursor for what the underwater drones of tomorrow could be.
