Four support vessels for French Navy
A team led by ship-building group Piriou, along with Kership and DCNS has been awarded a contract for the supply of four ocean-going support vessels for the French Navy, the French Ministry of Defence announced on 4 September.
Under the contract, the team will deliver the first two vessels in 2018. The second and third vessels are expected to be delivered in 2019, pending order confirmation in 2016. The new vessels will be used both for public safety and military missions and will replace five vessels of three types that are currently in service in the navy.
The contract covers the construction of the ships, on-board integration of equipment and trials in Brittany.
The 70m vessels, known as BSAH, will have a displacement of 2,665 tonnes and propulsion power of 5,200kW. Each will accommodate a crew of 17 and up to 12 additional people.
The vessels will be used for naval and civil support roles, including towing antennas and targets, and providing assistance to surface ships and submarines as required. They will also be used for missions including sea rescue and providing assistance to ships in distress, as well as environmental protection.
More from Naval Warfare
-
How powerful is the US fleet of nuclear submarines compared to Russian capabilities?
Although both countries still operate Cold War-era platforms, they possess capable nuclear-powered and armed submarines and are investing in the development of new, advanced capabilities.
-
Royal Australian Navy’s plan for fleet refresh continues in the face of headwinds
Australia has selected the Mogami-class frigate from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to replace Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Anzac-class frigates. The decision has been made as the RAN pushes to introduce delayed offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), awaits criticised Hunter-class ships and lives in the shadow of threats to the Collins-class submarine replacement efforts.
-
Indonesian Navy looks for variety and industrial partnerships to add capability
Indonesia is looking to introduce a variety of vessels to meet particular requirements both operational and geographic and is building ties with Turkey as part of the effort.