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.