Naval Group Rolls Out France’s Fourth Barracuda-Class Nuclear Submarine
Naval Group has rolled out the fourth Barracuda nuclear attack submarine (SSN), the De Grasse, in Cherbourg, France.
The vessel will undergo further outfitting and testing before sea trials commence in 2026.
The De Grasse is the fourth of six submarines intended to replace the French Navy’s Rubis-class SSNs.
Naval Group delivered the third submarine to the French defense procurement agency in November last year.
The vessel, named Tourville, began its maiden sea trials in July 2024 to assess its technical and operational performance ahead of delivery to the French Navy following its initial rollout in 2023.
Features
The Barracuda nuclear attack submarines are designed for multi-role operations and equipped with advanced propulsion, stealth, and firepower.
Powered by a nuclear propulsion system, it uses both a turbine and electric motors for movement.
The submarine can reach submerged speeds of around 25 knots (29 miles/46 kilometers per hour) and operate at depths greater than 300 meters (985 feet).
Its weapons systems include F21 heavyweight torpedoes for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare, Exocet SM39 missiles for surface targets, and MdCN naval cruise missiles for strikes against land-based targets.
The submarine integrates enhanced communication systems, enabling seamless integration into joint air and naval operations.
It features high acoustic discretion, advanced underwater detection, and extended mission endurance.
The De Grasse measures 99 meters (325 feet) in length, with a beam of 8.8 meters (29 feet), and has a surface displacement of approximately 4,700 tonnes.
