DCNS successfully simulates the loading of naval cruise missiles on FREMM frigate

: Posted On Wednesday, 18 January 2012 10:20

World Naval Forces News - France

DCNS successfully simulates the loading of naval cruise missiles on FREMM frigate

In recent weeks, DCNS teams continued tests of Aquitaine (FREMM) Frigate's combat system. Among the operations, DCNS engineers have completed the loading of naval cruise missiles model (MBDA's Scalp Naval). Ultimately, the implementation of these missiles will give the FREMM class unprecedented ability for a European frigate to neutralize a target located several hundred kilometers in land.

The loading of these dummy missiles was conducted at the request of the French Procurement Agency (DGA) by DCNS teams, in conjunction with MBDA, the supplier of ammunition and testing facilities. These tests were conducted to confirm that teams could safely load Aster SAM missiles and Scalp Naval cruise missiles onboard the FREMM class Frigates.

"The success of these operations is an illustration of the general smooth running of the Aquitaine Frigate tests," says Vincent Martinot-Lagarde, FREMM program director at DCNS. "Thanks to the commitment of DCNS employees, the FREMM vessels are a reference, with the most advanced systems available."

DCNS teams are seen loading a Scalp Naval cruise missile dummy
onboard French Navy Frigate Aquitaine, head of FREMM/Aquitaine class
(picture: DCNS)

The ability to implement naval cruise missiles make FREMM Frigates the first surface ships in Europe with the capacity to neutralize targets located deep inland, hundreds of kilometers away.

This unprecedented performance is possible thanks to the new versatile and advanced combat system on-board FREMM. It offers unique unmatched capabilities to intervene in many situations, particularly in anti submarine roles.

Five FREMM class frigates are currently under construction at various stages of completion at DCNS' shipyard in Lorient: Aquitaine, Mohammed VI (intended for the Royal Navy of Morocco), Normandy, Provence and Languedoc, which industrialization began some weeks ago.