A model of a Horizon-class frigate, with planned upgrades highlighted, at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition. (Janes/Neil Dee)
Eurosam (a joint venture formed by MBDA and Thales) showcased plans for the Horizon frigate mid-life upgrade (MLU) programme at the Euronaval 2024 exhibition, held in Paris from 4 to 7 November.
A model of a Horizon-class frigate, with associated systems highlighted, alongside an Aster 30 B1NT (Block 1 New Technology) missile was displayed by Eurosam.
The MLU scope for the French Forbin (Horizon)-class frigates and the Italian Andrea Doria (Orizzonte/Horizon)-class destroyers (the destroyer designation being used instead of frigate in Italian service) includes an updated open-architecture command-and-control (C2) system, Kronos Grand Naval and Thales SMART-L MM/N radars, and the Aster 30 B1NT missile, all of which were highlighted on the model.
Speaking to Janes at Euronaval, Jérôme Dufour, general secretary of Eurosam, said that the MLU involves a complete upgrade of the frigates' PAAMS NG [Principal Anti-Air Missile System Next Generation] system, for which Eurosam is the prime contractor and system design authority. Dufour said the electronics of the ships' vertical launch system (VLS) will also be updated (as highlighted on the model) while the C2 upgrade will allow the system to operate the current Aster 15 and 30 munitions, alongside the future Aster 30 B1NT.
In response to a question from Janes about potential future sea trials of the PAAMS NG system, following recent successful tests of its land-based counterpart SAMP/T NG (Système sol-air moyenne portée Terrestre - Nouvelle Génération), Dufour said that sea trials may be conducted in future to validate the MLU changes, with the focus currently on testing and qualification of SAMP/T NG.
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