French shipbuilding heavyweight Naval Group has rolled out the fourth Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine (SSN).
As disclosed, the vessel De Grasse is the third in a series of six new Barracuda nuclear attack submarines. De Grasse has left its construction hall in order to be transferred to the DME (“Dispositif de Mise à l’Eau”) floating platform-type shiplift.
According to Naval Group, De Grasse’s rollout is a key step in the program’s progress, which will lead to the beginning of its sea trials in 2026.
“I would like to salute the dedication and expertise of Naval Group’s teams, those of TechnicAtome, the DGA, the CEA, the French Navy, as well as those of all our partners. Reaching this new milestone is a testament to the know-how of the French naval industry which works proudly at the service of our armed forces,” Pierre Éric Pommellet , CEO of Naval Group, said.
This milestone follows the earlier deliveries of the Suffren in 2020, the Duguay-Trouin in 2023, and the Tourville in November 2024.
This series of six SNAs is part of the Barracuda program, managed by the DGA in collaboration with the Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA) for nuclear boilers. The goal of the program is to replace the aging Rubis-class submarines currently in service with the French Navy.
The submarines measure 99 meters in length with a surface displacement of 4,700 tons. Crewed by 90 sailors, the vessels will carry the next-generation type F21 heavyweight torpedoes, SM39 anti-ship missiles and MdCN-type naval cruise missiles. The boats will also be fully equipped for missions with NATO naval forces and special operations.