Cassard frigate class profile (to choose)

The Cassard-class frigates are anti-aircraft combat ships built by France, identified by the NATO code DDG. The Cassard (D614) and the Jean Bart (D615) were withdrawn from service in 2019 and 2021 respectively, replaced by FREMM DA multi-mission frigates.

The program began in 1972 to replace four anti-aircraft escort ships. Initially planned for seven units, economic constraints reduced this number to two. The construction, entrusted to the Lorient shipyard, integrated RIM-24 Tartar weapon systems converted to RIM-66 Standard.

The Cassard frigates have a structure similar to that of the Georges Leygues frigates, with improvements inspired by the Falklands War. They are powered exclusively by Diesel engines to reduce diesel consumption. Each frigate cost €600 million and represented 3 million hours of work.

Their armament includes RIM-66 Standard missiles, Exocet MM40, SADRAL systems, a 100 mm cannon, torpedo launchers, machine guns, and a Panther helicopter. They are equipped with advanced radars and electronic warfare systems, such as the SMART-S-Mk2 radar and the SENIT 6 system for networked warfare.

The Cassard frigates have provided anti-aircraft protection for various naval groups, including the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, and have participated in international missions such as Operation Baliste in Lebanon. They will be replaced by FREMM DA, an anti-aircraft version of the multi-mission frigates.