DCNS: over 50 combat-system trials performed on the FREMM Normandie.

The series of trials for the FREMM Normandie, which has just been completed in the Mediterranean, was principally dedicated to the verification of the vessel’s combat system. To perform these, the frigate was integrated into numerous scenarios, allowing progress in the setting up of its capacities in all areas of warfare (anti-aircraft warfare, anti-submarine warfare…).

These qualification trials were performed thanks to numerous support resources made available by the DGA and the French Navy (radar beacons, fighter aircrafts, maritime patrol aircrafts, helicopters, surface ships, submarines…). Such support allowed, for example, the deployment of the vessel’s electronic warfare system (interception, decoys and jamming) or the establishment of tactical data links.

“In total, we performed around fifty trials on the FREMM Normandie, thanks to the active involvement of all the DCNS, French Navy, DGA and OCCAR teams. These trials contribute to the proper integration of the frigate’s different sensors and weapons into the latest-generation SETIS® combat management system developed by DCNS” indicates Anne Bianchi, Director of the FREMM program.

The presence of the frigate in Toulon also allowed the completion of certain trial relating to the vessel’s
platform with, as the high point, the first deck landing of the Cai¨man NH90 helicopter.

After a final test performed with the support of the FREMM Aquitaine on Tuesday 24 June, and allowing the verification of the interoperability between the 2 frigates, the Normandie frigate has now sailed to the DCNS site in Lorient. Final finishing work will be carried out on the vessel over the summer before its delivery to the French Navy, expected over the course of the last quarter of 2014.

Link to FREMM Frigate (Aquitaine class) technical datasheet