France Commissions Third Barracuda-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine “Tourville”
The Barracuda-class submarines, managed by the DGA in collaboration with the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), are being developed to replace the aging Rubis-class nuclear submarines currently in service.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The French Ministry of Defence announced yesterday that the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) has delivered the Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine “Tourville” to the French Navy.
This marks the third Barracuda-class submarine handed over to the navy, following the delivery of Suffren in 2020 and Duguay-Trouin last year.
The Barracuda-class submarines, managed by the DGA in collaboration with the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), are being developed to replace the aging Rubis-class nuclear submarines currently in service.
The delivery of Tourville follows four months of sea trials, which began in July. These trials included the activation of the nuclear propulsion system in April 2024, along with performance evaluations of the submarine’s systems and equipment.
With its commissioning into active service, Tourville represents a continued effort to modernize the capabilities of the French Navy.
France is expected to operate a larger fleet of Barracuda-class submarines compared to the Rubis-class, enhancing its strategic reach and endurance.
Designed for nuclear propulsion, the Barracuda-class submarines offer extended operational range, endurance, and stealth capabilities.
Their propulsion system is derived from the nuclear reactors used in France’s ballistic missile submarines and its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
In terms of armament, these submarines are equipped with naval cruise missiles capable of striking land targets, upgraded Exocet anti-ship missiles, and advanced F21 heavy torpedoes for undersea warfare.
Their versatile capabilities enable them to conduct precision strikes, anti-submarine warfare, and special operations missions.
The submarines are crewed by 65 personnel and can accommodate commandos, allowing for exceptional operational flexibility.
Additionally, they are designed to remain operational for over 270 days annually, significantly enhancing their strategic value.
Three more submarines (De Grasse, Rubis, and Casabianca) are currently under construction at Naval Group’s Cherbourg facility. The next in line, De Grasse, is scheduled to enter its launch phase in spring 2025. — DSA
