'Dixmude', the third Mistral-class force projection and command vessel for the French Navy, has been delivered to the French defence procurement agency (DGA), three months ahead of the initial contract schedule.
The DGA ordered 'Dixmude' in April 2009 under the French government's economic stimulus package. It was scheduled for delivery to the DGA at the end of the first quarter of 2012 for entry into active service with the French Navy later in the year. However, the DGA was able to take formal delivery of the vessel on January 3, three months ahead of the contract deadline.
'Dixmude', France's third BPC-type force projection and command vessel, benefited from lessons learned during the construction of the first two Mistral-class ships and efficient co-operation between shipbuilder and outfitter STX France and DCNS, which had responsibility for the combat system and logistic support.
STX France co-ordinated industrial operations and built the platform and propulsion system as well as installing shipboard equipment. After successful sea trials, 'Dixmude' returned to Toulon in July 2011. DCNS then integrated and tested the combat system, including its communication, navigation and combat management capabilities.
Between April 2009, when the first steel was cut, and July 2011 when the platform was delivered, STX France consistently outpaced the production schedule. DCNS was also able to validate the combat system with just three sea trials, instead of the six scheduled under the contract. The vessel's Navy crew was able to work on board and familiarise itself with the new vessel from June 2011, expediting the trials.
In 2012, 'Dixmude' will be used as a training ship for the French Navy's Jeanne d'Arc mission. In this capacity, it will host a new cohort of officer cadets for instruction and exercises at sea as well as a detachment of French Army personnel.
The first two Mistral-class vessels, 'Mistral' and 'Tonnerre, were co-designed by DCNS and STX France and delivered to the French Navy in 2006 and 2007 respectively.