French Navy's Latest Generation Suffren-Class Submarine SNA Tourville Begins Sea Trials.

According to information published by the DGA (French Armed Forces Procurement Agency) on July 12, 2024, the SNA Tourville, the third submarine in the Barracuda program (Suffren class), made its first sea trial. This marks the beginning of its sea trials, with delivery expected by the end of 2024.
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The SNA Tourville, the third submarine in the Barracuda program, made its first sea trial on July 12, 2024. (Picture source: French DGA)

The Barracuda program, initiated to modernize the French Navy's submarine forces, is a significant step towards enhancing France's underwater capabilities. The program includes the construction of six new nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) Suffren class designed to replace the aging Rubis-class submarines. The Barracuda-class submarines are built by Naval Group and feature advanced stealth, improved detection capabilities, and enhanced weapon systems.

As of 2024, the French Navy operates a total of ten submarines. This fleet consists of both nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) and ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). The current SSN fleet includes the Rubis-class SSNs: Saphir (which is to be decommissioned soon), Casabianca, Émeraude, Perle, and Améthyste. The Barracuda-class SSNs include the Suffren, Duguay-Trouin (currently undergoing sea trials), and the newly launched Tourville. The SSBN fleet is composed of the Triomphant-class SSBNs: Le Triomphant, Le Téméraire, Le Vigilant, and Le Terrible.

The Barracuda program represents a major leap in the French Navy's operational capabilities. These submarines are designed for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and precision strikes against land targets. Key features of the Barracuda-class submarines include advanced acoustic stealth technologies to minimize detection, the capability of reaching speeds over 25 knots, and operating at depths greater than 350 meters, offering significant improvements in endurance and operational range. Equipped with torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and land-attack cruise missiles, they provide versatile combat capabilities. Enhanced living conditions for the crew and a high degree of automation reduce operational workload and improve efficiency.

In terms of technology and combat capabilities, the Suffren-class submarines, part of the Barracuda program, offer several advancements for the French Navy. They are equipped with advanced sonar systems that provide superior detection and tracking of underwater threats. The submarines also feature advanced combat management systems that allow for quick decision-making and effective engagement of targets. They are capable of launching MdCN (Missile de Croisière Naval) land-attack cruise missiles, which can strike targets at long distances with high precision. Additionally, the submarines are armed with heavyweight torpedoes and Exocet anti-ship missiles, making them formidable opponents in both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare.

The launch of the SNA Tourville into its initial sea trials marks another milestone in the Barracuda program, reflecting France's commitment to maintaining a robust and modern naval force. With the delivery of the Tourville and subsequent submarines, the French Navy will continue to bolster its strategic deterrence and operational versatility in maritime operations.