DCNS
unveils the new FREMM-ER sporting phased-array antenna and anti-ballistic
missile capability
At
the 23rd EURONAVAL show, DCNS unveiled the new FREMM-ER (for Extend
Range) Frigate dedicated to Air Defense missions. The new design is
based on the Aquitaine class of Frigates therefore retaining all the
qualities of the existing multi-mission frigate while bringing some
extra capabilities to tackle future threats such as ballistic missiles.
Gilles
Langlois, Business/Product Development Director, Surface Ship Systems
gave us a briefing on DCNS' latest warship project during Euronaval
2012
The
FREMM-ER (Extended Range) brings enhanced anti-air capabilities. Thanks
to its four-panel phased-array antenna and continuous hemispherical
coverage, the new radar can detect and track threats at unprecedented
ranges enabling the combat management system (CMS) to exploit the ship’s
current and future weapons systems to the full. These capabilities are
particularly important for littoral operations, in bad weather and against
increasingly stealthy threats.
The new FREMM-ER
would make a perfect CVBG escort, not only to protect the Carrier Battle
Group from Air threats, but from below surface threats as well thanks
to its unique multi-mission capabilities
(Picture: DCNS)
The
FREMM-ER was designed with a focus on Air Defense and Anti Ballistic
Missile Defense. The hull and general platform of the vessel is almost
identical to the French Navy's and DCNS' FREMM class. However the two
masts (Herakles radar and electronic warfare) found on the current FREMM
(such as the Aquitaine frigate) is replaced by a new radar by Thales
called SF 500 (or Sea Fire 500).
DCNS told us that a FREMM-ER would be able to fulfill the exact same
missions as the current FREMM. Indeed, FREMM-ER has the same multi-mission
capabilities as FREMM, in particular extensions capability can be installed
on FREMM-ER such as:
- Increased ASW capabilities with a VDS (variable depth sonar)
- Increased land attack capabilities with MDCN (Scalp Naval by MBDA)
FREMM-ER's CIC (Combat Information Center) shares the same characteristics
as the CIC found on FREMM:
- Large workstations
- Multipurpose Consoles
- Modular configuration
The SETIS modular CMS (Combat Management System) developed by DCNS and
the CIC area can implement new and future innovations as they become
mature. In FREMM-ER, sailors for example will be able to use augmented
reality in the fight against asymmetric threats.
