France advances SSBN and SSN projects
An artist's impression of the SNLE 3G-class design, which will replace the second-generation Triomphant-class through to the 2040s. The Triomphant-class replaced the first-generation Redoubtable-class SSBNs from 1997–2010. (Image source: Naval Group)
France has advanced its main programmes for new ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs).
Construction on the first new SSBN to be built under the Sous-Marin Nucléaire Lanceur d'Engins de Troisieme Génération (SNLE 3G) project will start by the end of 2023, according to a spokesperson from Naval Group, France’s main naval shipbuilding company.
The SNLE 3G programme was launched on 19 February 2021 to provide a class of four new SSBNs to replace the French Navy’s existing Triomphant-class SSBNs and modernise France’s sea-based nuclear deterrent.
Naval Group and TechnicAtome have been joint prime contractors working on the submarine design, construction and systems integration, and a new K22 pressurised water reactor. Under a contract awarded in 2021
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the largest single acquisition funding in its history]()
US Coast Guard to receive the largest single acquisition funding in its history
The nearly $25 billion investment will cover USCG procurement of cutters, aircraft, helicopters, training simulators and Polar capabilities over the next four years.
-
![US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter]()
US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
-
![US Coast Guard announces measures to further implement Force Design 2028 strategy]()
US Coast Guard announces measures to further implement Force Design 2028 strategy
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.
-
![Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear]()
Future of the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke programme remains unclear
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
-
![US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes]()
US Navy may look to foreign suppliers to accelerate shipbuilding programmes
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.
-
![Australia commissions HMAS Arafura three-and-a-half years behind schedule]()
Australia commissions HMAS Arafura three-and-a-half years behind schedule
The Royal Australian Navy has finally commissioned the first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel – more than three years behind schedule – highlighting the programme’s delays, design compromises and ongoing industrial restructuring.
