With the sale of over 90 Combattante fast attack boats to its credit, Normandy-based shipbuilder CMN has revamped the entire family which now includes models between 46 and 65 metres in length. All feature state-of-the-art equipment, including powerful self-defence, electronic warfare and combat management systems and a panoramic bridge. Nor have the new designs compromised on the qualities that made the family’s reputation, namely overall performance, reliability and competitive acquisition costs.
Raidco Marine has unveiled a new design concept for a logistic support vessel designated BSL 95. This simple, rugged ship is an economical solution that bridges the gap between landing helicopter docks and smaller amphibious craft that lack blue water capabilities. The concept’s inherent versatility ensures its suitability for conventional military projection or special forces operations; command, logistic support and transportation roles; also public service, sovereignty and representation missions.
Acknowledged as the builder of the world’s largest cruise liners, Saint-Nazaire-based STX France also has a solid track record in warship construction. Several decades ago, the company built the Foch aircraft carrier for the French Navy. STX France works closely with DCNS on large-platform projects and programmes, including current-generation Mistral-class LHDs and next-generation logistic support vessels for domestic and international clients.
High-performance assets alone do not make a navy efficient. Technical and operational expertise and training are equally important. In addition to giving client armed forces access to a wide range of initial and ongoing training services, France also shares its vast operational know-how with partner countries. For over 30 years, this mission has fallen to DCI (Défense Conseil International), the French specialists in defence training, consultancy and support. Some 70% of DCI’s staff are serving or recently retired military personnel.
Identification, protection, intelligence gathering, fire control… optronic systems play a critical role in naval operations from high-intensity combat to maritime security and asymmetrical warfare. System performance and efficiency depend not only on the technologies used, but also on the optimal integration of capabilities from passive multispectral imaging and active imaging to laser range-finding, targeting and designation, geolocation, image processing, tracking and stabilisation.