First air defence-enhanced FREMM launched

Alsace , the first Frégate Européenne Multi-Missions (FREMM) frigate with enhanced air defence capabilities, was launched by Naval Group at its site in Lorient on 18 April, the French shipbuilder has announced in a press release.

The Alsace, the first Frégate Européenne Multi-Missions (FREMM) frigate with enhanced air defence capabilities, was launched by Naval Group at its Lorient site on 18 April. (Naval Group)

Naval Group said Alsace, which is designated FREMM DA, has the same anti-submarine warfare capabilities as FREMMs launched before it. FREMM DA programme director Pierre-Jean Cusinier said the frigate has retained its multi-mission character but that its increased anti-air warfare capabilities were achieved by modifications mainly to the combat system.

Naval Group said Alsace has a more powerful Herakles multifunction radar, improved communication systems, a new radar and electro-optical fire control system, SETIS combat management system with anti-air defence functions, and Aster 15 and 30 missiles. It can also be armed with Exocet MM 40 surface-to-surface missiles and MU 90 torpedoes.

Alsace is the seventh FREMM ordered by the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR) on behalf of the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA), the French defence procurement agency. It is scheduled to be handed over to the French Navy during the first half of 2021, followed by Lorraine, the second FREMM DA, during the second half of 2022.