On July 20, 2023, Naval Group, the renowned French shipbuilding company, achieved a significant milestone as it unveiled the third submarine of the Barracuda class. This event marks a crucial step in the modernization of the French Navy, as the Barracuda-class submarines are set to gradually replace the Rubis-class submarines currently in service. The rollout of this submarine signifies progress in the program, leading to sea trials scheduled for 2024. With advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology, the Barracuda-class submarines will provide the French Navy with enhanced defense capabilities and reinforce France’s position as a maritime power.
The Rubis-class submarines, which the Barracuda-class submarines will replace, have been in service with the French Navy since the 1980s. While these six aging SSNs (nuclear-powered attack submarines) have served the French Navy well, they are due for technology and capabilities updates.
Barracuda-class Submarines: Key Developments
The Barracuda-class submarines, a series of six SSNs, are being produced by Naval Group, responsible for their design, construction, and manufacture of the main components of the nuclear boilers in collaboration with TechnicAtome. The rollout of the third submarine is a significant milestone for the Naval Group and its partners, including TechnicAtome and the CEA (French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission). Pierre Eric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group, expressed pride in leading this major program on behalf of the DGA and the French Navy, emphasizing the project’s significance as it provides France with an unrivaled defense tool.
This event highlights the commitment of all those involved in the program’s success and underscores the importance of French industry in serving the armed forces.
The Barracuda-class submarines are equipped with advanced features and capabilities that significantly enhance the French Navy’s operational capabilities. With a deep strike capability, these submarines can deploy MBDA’s naval cruise missiles (NCM) and are armed with F21 heavyweight torpedoes produced by Naval Group, as well as the SM39 anti-ship missiles from MBDA. The Barracuda-class submarines also enable the discreet deployment of Special Forces underwater, thanks to features such as the “divers hatch” and the optional carrying of a dry deck shelter, facilitating the deployment of underwater vehicles.
On July 20, 2023, Naval Group, the renowned French shipbuilding company, achieved a significant milestone as it unveiled the third submarine of the Barracuda class. This event marks a crucial step in the modernization of the French Navy, as the Barracuda-class submarines are set to gradually replace the Rubis-class submarines currently in service. The rollout of this submarine signifies progress in the program, leading to sea trials scheduled for 2024. With advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology, the Barracuda-class submarines will provide the French Navy with enhanced defense capabilities and reinforce France’s position as a maritime power.
The Rubis-class submarines, which the Barracuda-class submarines will replace, have been in service with the French Navy since the 1980s. While these six aging SSNs (nuclear-powered attack submarines) have served the French Navy well, they are due for technology and capabilities updates.
Barracuda-class Submarines: Key Developments
The Barracuda-class submarines, a series of six SSNs, are being produced by Naval Group, responsible for their design, construction, and manufacture of the main components of the nuclear boilers in collaboration with TechnicAtome. The rollout of the third submarine is a significant milestone for the Naval Group and its partners, including TechnicAtome and the CEA (French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energy Commission). Pierre Eric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group, expressed pride in leading this major program on behalf of the DGA and the French Navy, emphasizing the project’s significance as it provides France with an unrivaled defense tool.
This event highlights the commitment of all those involved in the program’s success and underscores the importance of French industry in serving the armed forces.
The Barracuda-class submarines are equipped with advanced features and capabilities that significantly enhance the French Navy’s operational capabilities. With a deep strike capability, these submarines can deploy MBDA’s naval cruise missiles (NCM) and are armed with F21 heavyweight torpedoes produced by Naval Group, as well as the SM39 anti-ship missiles from MBDA. The Barracuda-class submarines also enable the discreet deployment of Special Forces underwater, thanks to features such as the “divers hatch” and the optional carrying of a dry deck shelter, facilitating the deployment of underwater vehicles.
These technological advancements represent a leap forward in the French Navy’s capabilities and are the result of over two decades of collective work between the Naval Group and its partners in the defense industrial and technological base.
Collaboration and Workforce
The Barracuda program mobilizes the expertise of the French defense industrial and technological base, involving the skills of all Naval Group sites, as well as the industrial areas of TechnicAtome and numerous partner companies. The design and production of the Barracuda submarines involve a workforce of 2,500 individuals, including subcontractors, whose dedication and commitment are showcased in this collaborative effort to ensure the program’s success.
FNS Améthyste, the fifth Rubis-class nuclear-powered attack submarine of the French Navy. (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)
Cost, Lifespan, and Technical Characteristics
The Barracuda fleet reportedly costs around 9.1 billion euros ($10.1 billion), excluding maintenance, and is expected to serve the French Navy until 2060. These submarines have a surface displacement of 4,700 tonnes, a diving displacement of 5,200 tonnes, a length of 99 meters, and a diameter of 8.8 meters.
With a hybrid propulsion system comprising a pressurized water reactor derived from the reactors on board the Triomphant-class SSBN and Charles-de-Gaulle aircraft carrier, along with two propulsion turbines, two turbo generators, and two electric motors, the Barracuda-class submarines offer exceptional performance. They accommodate a crew of 63 members, in addition to commandos, and are available for operations for over 270 days per year.
Strategic Significance and Future Prospects
The unveiling of the third Barracuda-class nuclear submarine marks a significant milestone in the modernization of the French Navy and reinforces France’s position as a maritime power. These submarines will provide the French Navy with enhanced operational capabilities, enabling them to project strength and protect national interests. The Barracuda-class submarines will play a vital role in safeguarding French national security and contributing to international maritime stability with their advanced technology and capabilities. As the Barracuda-class submarines gradually replace the Rubis-class submarines, they will ensure that the French Navy maintains a modern and capable fleet for decades to come.
Securing France’s Maritime Defense for the Future
The unveiling of France’s third Barracuda-class nuclear submarine by Naval Group represents a significant milestone in the modernization of the French Navy. With advanced capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and the dedication of the workforce involved, the Barracuda-class submarines will play a vital role in reinforcing France’s maritime defense capabilities. The gradual replacement of the Rubis-class submarines by the Barracuda-class submarines will bolster the French Navy’s operational capabilities, safeguarding the nation’s ability to protect its national interests and make enduring contributions to international maritime security.
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