Amiral ronarc'h frigate profile

The Frégate de Défense et d'Intervention (FDI) is a state-of-the-art frigate model designed to equip the French Navy and the Hellenic Navy from 2024 onwards. This program, originally referred to as Intermediate-sized frigates, was initiated by France to succeed the Multi-Mission Frigate program. The FDI is a lighter vessel, weighing 4,460 tonnes compared to its predecessor's 6,278 tonnes, while maintaining comparable weaponry. The construction of these frigates takes place at Lorient by Naval Group.

Historical Background:

The Frigate program, initially named Frigate de Taille Intermédiaire (FTI), aimed to fulfill the need for a fleet of fifteen first-rate frigates, allowing the French Navy to operate effectively in crisis zones, as outlined in the White Paper on Defense and National Security 2013. The project was introduced in June 2013 and underwent conceptual refinement in May 2015, with specifications including significant anti-air capabilities, anti-submarine capabilities, and a displacement of 4,000 to 4,500 tonnes. Renamed Frégate de Défense et d'Intervention (FDI) in 2019, these frigates are intended to complement more powerful combat units rather than directly replace them.

Development:

The FDI program received a €125 million commitment in 2015, and following the Ministry of Defense's investment committee meeting in November 2015, it was officially launched. The study and development were entrusted to Naval Group, with the program starting two years earlier than initially planned. The FDI, designed for export, can feature different equipment configurations. The construction methodology incorporates innovative techniques such as the "takt time," resulting in the simultaneous production of the mast and hull. The first vessel, Amiral Ronarc'h, was launched in October 2019.

Characteristics:

The FDI class, exemplified by Amiral Ronarc'h, features a distinctive inverted bow for improved performance in rough seas and enhanced stealth. With a length of 122 meters, a beam of 17.7 meters, and a displacement of 4,460 tonnes, it is powered by a combined "diesel and diesel" propulsion system with a maximum speed of 27 knots. The vessel accommodates 125 crew members, including 15 for aviation operations, and can house a total of 150 individuals.

The FDI is armed with a variety of weapons, including the SETIS combat management system, an Otobreda 76mm gun, two remotely operated 20mm guns, a 16-cell Sylver A50 vertical launch system for Aster 30 surface-air missiles, eight Exocet MM40 anti-ship missiles, and two double-tube torpedo launchers.

Users:

France plans to deploy five FDI frigates, named after 20th-century admirals, between 2024 and 2029. These vessels are set to replace and supplement the La Fayette-class frigates, addressing perceived deficiencies, especially in anti-submarine warfare capabilities.