France advances SSBN and SSN projects
An artist's impression of the SNLE 3G-class design, which will replace the second-generation Triomphant-class through to the 2040s. The Triomphant-class replaced the first-generation Redoubtable-class SSBNs from 1997–2010. (Image source: Naval Group)
France has advanced its main programmes for new ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs).
Construction on the first new SSBN to be built under the Sous-Marin Nucléaire Lanceur d'Engins de Troisieme Génération (SNLE 3G) project will start by the end of 2023, according to a spokesperson from Naval Group, France’s main naval shipbuilding company.
The SNLE 3G programme was launched on 19 February 2021 to provide a class of four new SSBNs to replace the French Navy’s existing Triomphant-class SSBNs and modernise France’s sea-based nuclear deterrent.
Naval Group and TechnicAtome have been joint prime contractors working on the submarine design, construction and systems integration, and a new K22 pressurised water reactor. Under a contract awarded in 2021
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Naval Warfare
-
![NATO to strengthen its Baltic Sea presence after new cable cutting incident]()
NATO to strengthen its Baltic Sea presence after new cable cutting incident
The vessel suspected of cutting cables has been boarded by the Finnish Coast Guard, and Estonia has launched naval protection patrols.
-
![How bad management could put the US Navy’s cruiser fleet far behind Chinese capabilities]()
How bad management could put the US Navy’s cruiser fleet far behind Chinese capabilities
While China has been rapidly advancing with the development of the Type 055 class, the US Navy has been struggling to progress with the modernisation of its cruiser fleet.
-
![US Coast Guard acquires icebreaker, and gets approval for Polar cutter]()
US Coast Guard acquires icebreaker, and gets approval for Polar cutter
The investment will help the US move towards its prescribed Arctic requirement.
-
![Saab signs modernisation deal for Sweden’s coastal anti-ship missile capability]()
Saab signs modernisation deal for Sweden’s coastal anti-ship missile capability
Sweden’s Baltic coastal defence will be upgraded with new missile options.
-
![South Korea chooses LIG Nex1 for reconnaissance USV]()
South Korea chooses LIG Nex1 for reconnaissance USV
The uncrewed surface vessel was secured with a DAPA contract.
