Naval Group launches ninth FREMM frigate

The seventh FREMM frigate ordered for the French Navy and the ninth ship overall in the class was launched at Naval Group’s shipyard in Lorient on Thursday, April 18.

Unlike the earlier ships in the class, Alsace will possess increased air defence capability, which includes Aster 15 and 30 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), in addition to antisubmarine warfare (ASW) capability.

It is the first of a planned two air defence frigates, designated FREMM DA, destined for France.

Alsace will serve as an escort ship providing air defence for the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle and other vessels in an aero-naval or amphibious group.

Alsace and FREMM DA sister ship Lorraine are scheduled to be delivered in the first half of 2021 and in the second half of 2022, respectively.