France’s defense procurement agency (DGA) announced that Amiral Ronarc’h, the lead Défense et Intervention Frigate (FDI), has sailed from Naval Group’s Lorient shipyard to its home port in Brest. The 4,500-ton frigate features a digital radar suite, modern combat management system, and a refined weapons loadout. It carries Aster surface-to-air missiles, Exocet anti-ship missiles, a 76 mm main gun, MU90 torpedoes, and two remotely operated 20 mm mounts, complemented by cyber defense and advanced sensors for operations in challenging maritime environments.
At 122 meters long, the FDI is powered by a 32 MW CODAD propulsion plant, achieving high speeds suitable for carrier group integration. Crew numbers are around 125, with additional space for aviation and mission specialists. The frigate can operate a 10-ton Caïman Marine helicopter, extending its reach in anti-submarine warfare and surface surveillance.
Thales Sea Fire radar provides 360-degree coverage and rapid updates, while CAPTAS 4 and Kingklip Mk2 sonars detect underwater threats. Electronic warfare systems, including the CANTO torpedo countermeasure, enhance defensive capabilities. The Aster and Exocet missiles provide effective air and surface strike options.
Amiral Ronarc’h can serve as a carrier escort, providing long-range air picture and anti-submarine defense, or operate independently in chokepoints, protect replenishment ships, or conduct maritime interdiction. Its advanced IT backbone, cyber resilience, and virtualized systems distinguish it from other frigates.
The FDI class replaces aging La Fayette frigates and contributes to NATO missions while offering export potential, as seen with Greece. Equipped with advanced radar, long-range missiles, and integrated sensors, Amiral Ronarc’h enhances France’s maritime presence in both the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
