French nuclear sub Perle returns to action after fire damage
The return of Perle to operations alleviates some pressure on France's SSN force since the 2020 fire that took it out of service. (Photo: French Armed Forces Ministry)
Following sea trials, Rubis-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) Perle has been delivered back to the French Navy following extensive repair works after a catastrophic fire in 2020.
French shipbuilder Naval Group has been working to replace the bow of the nuclear attack submarine after it was damaged in a 2020 fire in Toulon.
French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the achievement was a ‘real technical feat’ and praised the commitment of the French Navy, French procurement agency DGA and Naval Group.
The submarine was transported to Cherbourg to undergo repairs.
With work now completed and sea trials undertaken, the submarine is now deployable and ready to contribute to France’s operational submarine fleet.
During the complex repairs, Naval Group essentially joined two submarines, Perle and the
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme]()
US Navy outlines next steps of the Aegis modernisation programme
The US Navy intends to enhance the integration and lethality of the Aegis capabilities onboard its cruisers and destroyers.
-
![Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist]()
Austal signs long-delayed shipbuilding pact as industry risks persist
Austal signs long-delayed Strategic Shipbuilding Agreement, but schedule risks and programme delays still loom over Canberra’s naval plans.
-
![Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs]()
Red Cat expands its manufacturing capacities to surge production of UAVs and USVs
The company has invested $80 million to enhance its facilities and establish a new maritime division.
-
![Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027]()
Zumwalt-class hypersonic missile plan progresses with demonstration set for 2027
The US Navy’s Zumwalt-class destroyer is a stealth ship originally designed to consist of a fleet of 32 but has been cut back to three. Conceived for a land-attack role, it is now being fitted with a hypersonic missile capability.
-
![US Coast Guard commissions first icebreaker acquired in the last 25 years]()
US Coast Guard commissions first icebreaker acquired in the last 25 years
The Cutter Storis officially entered service with the Branch on 10 August. The new capability will be operated from Juneau, Alaska.
