France's new-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) replacing the aging Rubis class. Displacement of 5,300 tonnes submerged with a crew of 65 — highly automated for reduced manning. Powered by a hybrid propulsion system combining a K15 nuclear reactor with pump-jet propulsor for exceptional acoustic stealth. Armed with F21 heavyweight torpedoes, Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles, and SCALP Naval (MdCN) cruise missiles for strategic land-attack — the first French SSN with this capability. Can deploy special forces via a dry deck shelter. Six boats ordered: Suffren and Duguay-Trouin commissioned, with four more building. Represents a generational leap in French submarine capability.
![Naval Group logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="16" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">NAVAL GROUP</text></svg>)
- Nuclear propulsion truly unlimited endurance
- MdCN land-attack cruise missile 1000km range
- SM39 Exocet anti-ship from submerged
- F21 heavyweight torpedo
- Successor to Rubis with major improvements
- Nuclear maintenance complex and expensive
- Limited to French sovereign control
- Not ITAR-free for export
- Only 6 planned — insufficient for dual presence
Sign in to join the discussion and rate this weapon system
SIGN INNo comments yet. Be the first to share your analysis.
