Naval Group has marked a significant milestone with the delivery of “Tourville,” the third submarine of the Suffren-class nuclear attack fleet, to the French General Directorate of Armaments (DGA). This strategic delivery advances France’s efforts to modernize its naval capabilities as it transitions from the aging Rubis-class submarines to a more advanced fleet of Suffren-class vessels under the Barracuda program.
The DGA has collaborated closely with the Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission to oversee the development and integration of these new submarines, aimed at enhancing the French Navy’s operational readiness and technological edge. The Tourville was officially rolled out in July 2023 and subsequently embarked on its maiden sea trials a year later, during which it underwent rigorous evaluations to confirm its technical and operational capabilities.
The Suffren-class vessels are being produced as part of a broader initiative to reinforce the French Navy’s underwater capabilities. The lead submarine of this class, “Suffren,” was delivered in 2020, followed by the second unit, “Duguay-Trouin,” which was added to the fleet earlier this year. With the delivery of Tourville, the remaining three submarines—”De Grasse,” “Rubis,” and “Casabianca”—are actively under construction in various phases at Naval Group’s facility in Cherbourg.
Looking ahead, the “De Grasse” submarine is scheduled to be transferred to the launching facility in the spring of 2025, indicating a steady progression in the Barracuda program’s timeline.
Naval Group holds the primary responsibility for the design, construction, and logistical support of the Barracuda program submarines, with maintenance services also centered in Toulon. They have partnered with TechnicAtome, a leading nuclear engineering and power company, to manufacture essential components for the submarines’ nuclear boilers, ensuring high standards in nuclear propulsion technology.
Each Suffren-class submarine boasts a surface displacement of 4,700 tons and a submerged displacement of 5,200 tons. Equipped with hybrid propulsion systems, these submarines are capable of executing various tactical missions. Armaments include naval cruise missiles, F21 heavy wire-guided torpedoes, and the modernized Exocet SM39 anti-ship missile. The vessels measure 99 meters (325 feet) in length and 8.8 meters (29 feet) in width, accommodating a crew of 65 personnel along with additional commandos, underscoring the strategic versatility and operational capacity of the new fleet.
As the French Navy continues to evolve its capabilities, the introduction of the Suffren-class submarines represents a foundational shift toward a more advanced and effective maritime defense posture, ensuring that France remains a formidable presence in global naval operations.
