French defence procurement agency DGA has awarded a contract to PIRIOU and DCNS for supply of three multi-mission ocean-going vessels, with an option for a fourth and associated maintenance services.
The work is separated in two segments where PIRIOU will be in charge of design and construction and DCNS will be responsible for in-service support of the ships.
Chairman and CEO of PIRIOU group, Pascal PIRIOU, said that the order was fundamental for them and that it gives substance to their collaboration with DCNS.
On the other hand, DCNS Executive Vice-President, Bernard Planchais, said that this mark of confidence by the French defence procurement agency demonstrates the joint capacity of DCNS and PIRIOU.
These ships can be at sea without replenishment about 30 days. Also, they can carry weapons and munitions and will be capable of deploying divers. Their top speed will be from 12 to 15 knots. Each of them will be equipped with a crane, which will help them to load and unload containers.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, January 09, 2014; Image: PIRIOU