The FDI Frégate de Défense et d’Intervention (Defense and Intervention Frigate) is an advanced class of multi-role frigates developed by Naval Group, a French naval shipbuilder. Commissioned by the French Ministry of Armed Forces via the Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA - French Armed Forces Procurement Agency), the FDI represents the latest evolution in surface combatants for both the French and Hellenic navies. The FDI is a compact but highly capable warship class, designed for operations in high-threat environments and equipped with cutting-edge digital, cyber, and combat systems.
Country users: France, Greece
Technical Data
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Design
The FDI frigate is designed to offer maximum capability in a compact platform. With a full-load displacement of around 4,500 tons, they measure 122 meters in length and have a beam of 18 meters. The class features an innovative inverted bow design to enhance stability and seakeeping in rough seas while also minimizing radar signature. The internal architecture is modular and optimized for ease of access during maintenance or upgrades. The ship accommodates 125 crew members and can carry an additional 28 personnel for missions such as special forces deployment or helicopter detachment. The flight deck and hangar support a 10-ton class helicopter, such as the NH90 Caïman Marine, and an aerial drone, with capabilities for simultaneous operations.
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Armament
The armament suite of the FDI is tailored for multi-domain operations. French Navy variants carry 16 Aster 15/30 surface-to-air missiles in Sylver A50 vertical launch systems. The Hellenic Navy variants are armed with 32 Aster 30 B1 missiles, providing enhanced air defense. Each ship is also equipped with eight MM40 Exocet Block 3C anti-ship missiles capable of engaging targets at ranges exceeding 200 kilometers.
The main gun is a 76 mm Super Rapid cannon mounted forward, used for surface threats and naval gunfire support. Two Narwhal 20 mm remote weapon systems provide close-range protection against fast boats or UAVs. The ASW suite includes four torpedo tubes launching MU90 Impact lightweight torpedoes. In addition, FDI HN frigates will feature Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) for point defense, a capability unique to the Greek variants.
Countermeasures include the CANTO anti-torpedo system, which is integrated with the SYLENA decoy launcher for high-fidelity defense against underwater threats.
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Sensors, Electronics, and Decoys
The sensor and electronic warfare capabilities of the FDI are centered around the Thales Sea Fire radar. This AESA system with four fixed panels offers full 360° coverage, high-speed target tracking, and integration with the Aster missile suite for area air defense. Anti-submarine operations are enabled by a combination of the Kingklip Mark II hull-mounted sonar and the CAPTAS-4 compact variable-depth sonar.
The Panoramic Sensor and Intelligence Module (PSIM) consolidates electronic and radar sensors into a stealth-optimized superstructure. Electronic support and countermeasure roles are managed by the Thales SENTINEL suite, offering advanced detection and jamming of enemy emissions. Combat operations are coordinated through the SETIS 3.0 Combat Management System, which offers robust data fusion, multi-domain awareness, and seamless integration with allied forces under NATO standards.
Unique to the FDI is a dual redundant digital core, comprising two virtualized data centers that host the ship’s mission systems. This architecture allows for dynamic reconfiguration, rapid updates, and enhanced cybersecurity, making the FDI the first cyber-defended frigate class from France.
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Engine
The FDI propulsion is provided by a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) system, producing up to 32 megawatts of power. This configuration propels the ship to a top speed of 27 knots and grants a range of 5,000 nautical miles at cruising speed. The design prioritizes acoustic discretion, vital for anti-submarine warfare, and endurance of up to 45 days. Twin controllable-pitch propellers offer maneuverability and redundancy, allowing the FDI to operate effectively in both open-ocean and littoral environments.
The FDI is thus a culmination of France's cutting-edge naval technology—highly adaptable, powerfully armed, and resilient against future digital and kinetic threats.
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