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Submarine De Grasse Is The Fourth Of The Barracuda Class And Signals A New Phase In French Naval Modernization
On May 27, 2025, the French Navy took a new step in its modernization program with the launch of the De Grasse, a nuclear-powered attack submarine.
The model is the fourth in the Barracuda series, also known as the Suffren class, and is notable for its ability to operate for up to 270 days without returning to base.
Landmark In Construction
The De Grasse was transferred from the construction shed to the DME floating platform at the Naval Group shipyard in Cherbourg.
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This process marks the transition from structural assembly to the equipment and systems integration phase.
The project is part of the Barracuda program, which has a budget of € 10 billion and is led by the French defense procurement agency (DGA). The goal is to replace the submarines of the old Rubis class with six new models by 2030.
Nuclear Capacity And French Technology
The Naval Group is responsible for the entire construction and also partners with TechnicAtome for the nuclear steam supply system. This system, known as NSSS, is essential for propulsion.
The CEO of the Naval Group, Pierre Éric Pommellet, stated that the launch of the De Grasse represents a fundamental advancement. “This success reflects the excellence of the French shipbuilding industry and its contribution to national sovereignty,” he declared.
In total, around 2,500 people are involved in the program, including employees and subcontractors, highlighting the significant national investment in submarine warfare technology.
Technical Data And Armaments
The Barracuda class represents a technological advancement over the previous generation. The submarines displace 4,700 tons on the surface and 5,200 tons when submerged. With a length of 99 meters and a width of 8.8 meters, the design combines stealth, resilience, and flexibility.
The pressurized water reactor, similar to that used in the strategic submarines of the Triomphant class and on the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, ensures long patrols. The autonomy can reach 270 days a year.
The submarine is equipped with precision-guided armaments. It has naval cruise missiles (MdCN), with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers, SM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles, and heavy torpedoes F21.
Special Operations And Next Steps
The De Grasse is also prepared to support special operations. It features a lockout chamber for divers and can accommodate a dry deck shelter. These capabilities enable the use of Special Forces and underwater autonomous systems.
The launch of the De Grasse follows the commissioning of the Suffren (2020), Duguay-Trouin (2023), and the recent launch of Tourville. Sea trials are scheduled for 2026, following land and harbor system tests.
France remains one of the few countries capable of designing and building nuclear submarines. The Barracuda program, in development for over two decades, reinforces this position.
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