Scorpène Class Submarine

Scorpène Class Submarine

Type: submarine

Domain: sea

Country of Origin: Chile

Manufacturer: Naval Group (France) / Spanish shipyards

Overview

French diesel-electric attack submarines making Chile the first South American operator of Scorpène — providing modern submarine capability for sea denial, maritime surveillance, and special operations. Two submarines: O'Higgins (commissioned 2005) and Carrera (2006). Displacement of 1,670 tonnes with length of 66.4 metres. Features six 533mm torpedo tubes for heavyweight torpedoes and potentially Exocet SM39 submarine-launched anti-ship missiles, modern combat management system, comprehensive sonar suite, periscope with thermal imaging, diesel-electric propulsion with air independent propulsion (AIP) capability (Chilean boats lack AIP initially but prepared for retrofit), maximum submerged speed 20 knots, crew of 31. The Scorpène provides Chilean Navy with modern silent submarine capability operating in Pacific waters monitoring maritime approaches, conducting intelligence gathering, and providing deterrent against potential adversaries. Advanced sensors and stealth enable covert operations. Chilean Scorpène represents first modern submarine class in South American after decades of older boats. Continuous modernization maintains capability. Potential future AIP retrofit extending submerged endurance. Chile pioneered Scorpène in Americas followed by Brazil demonstrating French success in export market. Complements Chilean surface fleet creating layered naval capability. Future potential additional submarines or replacement with next-generation designs maintaining Chilean submarine force.

Operators

Related sea Weapon Systems