French Navy’s New OPV (Patrouilleur Hauturier) Showcased at Euronaval 2024

At the Euronaval 2024 exhibition in Paris, the DGA showcased the new generation of offshore patrol vessels (Patrouilleur Hauturier, PH), previously known as PO (ocean patrol vessels), for the French Navy.  The "Patrouilleurs Hauturiers" program will deliver 7+3 ships by 2035 to replace older units and significantly upgrade the Marine Nationale's capabilities. Specifically, the new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) are designed to carry out missions currently performed by the six ageing D’Estienne d’Orves/A69 type (formerly light frigates and then reclassed as patrol vessels) high-seas patrol vessels (PHM) based in Brest and Toulon as well as the three Flamant-class (OPV 54) public service patrol boats (PSP) in Cherbourg: support for deterrence, maritime security, evacuation, protection, escort and intervention within the framework of State action at sea and deployment in France’s areas of interest. To carry out this wide range of missions, the new ships will have larger size and superior operational capabilities compared to the vessels they replace, owing to their advanced equipment and design features. My story for Naval News, here.

Naval Group Makes Progress with its Revolutionary MPLS CIWS

At Euronaval 2024, Naval Group shared the latest with its "Multi-purpose and Modular Launching System" (MPLS), a RAM-like close-in weapon system (CIWS) which takes the concept a step further: By being Multi-purpose and Modular, the launcher brings revolutionary capabilities and is particularly relevant in today's context. First introduced at the Naval Innovation Days (NID) a year ago, Naval Group’s MPLS marks a significant technological advancement. The launcher is being developed in partnership with experts from the French Navy and the French defense procurement agency (DGA), in order to offer 100% user-centered innovation and to meet the new operational challenges of navies and their budgetary constraints. It involves several ammunition partners (such as KNDS and Thales) and suggests other future collaborations for next generation ammunition. My story for Naval News, here.