surveillance frigate (6 choices)

The Floréal class is a type of surveillance frigates built in France. These frigates were developed about thirty years ago to meet the changing needs of the French Navy. At the time, with the end of the Cold War, major conflicts seemed less likely and the focus was on low-intensity operations. The main mission of these ships was the surveillance of the French Exclusive Economic Zone, which covers 12 million square kilometers. For this, it was necessary to have boats equipped with helicopters, simple but effective, in order to be less expensive and easier to build.

The Floréal class project began in 1988, in response to needs expressed in 1987. Construction was entrusted to Chantiers de l'Atlantique, which used innovative construction methods. These frigates have also been designed in compliance with civil safety standards for ships carrying passengers. They have been equipped for surveillance missions, with the capacity to carry helicopters and deterrent weapons.

Ships were built in blocks, combining civilian and military elements. The diesel engines were supplied by SEMT Pielstick. Once the civilian phases were completed, the DCN (Direction des Constructions Navales) took charge of the integration of military equipment, such as communication, detection and artillery systems. Each year, a ship was built, and the Floréal class entered into operation for surveillance and maritime presence missions.

Over time, some characteristics have evolved. For example, in 2015, Exocet MM 38 missiles were removed from frigates as they were deemed unnecessary for their missions.

With regard to their replacement, a consolidation of the capacities of the French Navy is envisaged after 2025, when the Germinal ship will reach 31 years of age. The Floréal class ships have been engaged in various operations, mainly in peacetime, such as the release of hostages and participation in threat neutralization missions.

The Floréal class includes several ships bearing the names of months of the Republican calendar. Among them are the ships Floréal, Prairial, Nivôse, Ventôse, Vendémiaire and Germinal, each having been commissioned at different dates in the 1990s.