The Ship Jacques Stosskopf Begins Sea Trials and Will Be Delivered to the French Navy in 2025, Strengthening the Logistical and Strategic Naval Capacity of the Country.
The logistics support ship Jacques Stosskopf has begun its first sea trials, departing from the port of Saint-Nazaire, with delivery to the French National Navy expected this fall.
This robust vessel, the second of a series of four, is part of the strategic program FLOTLOG and enhances France’s operational autonomy at sea. The project, resulting from a partnership between Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Naval Group, involves investments of €1.7 billion and international cooperation with Italy.
A Giant of the Seas with Cutting-Edge Technology
With an impressive total displacement of 31,000 tons and a length of 194 meters, the ship Jacques Stosskopf has been designed to carry out replenishment and logistics support missions for the entire French fleet.
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The vessel has capacity for 200 people and can carry up to 13,000 m³ of fuel, as well as advanced tactical equipment that allows for operations in high-complexity scenarios.
The construction of the ship is a response to the need to replace the veterans of the Durance class, significantly enhancing the capabilities of the National Navy for prolonged operations far from French territory.
The Jacques Stosskopf is capable of transporting ammunition, food, spare parts, and other essential supplies, ensuring the continuous operation of naval forces.
Strategic Partnership and Industrial Innovation
The ship is part of the “Logistics Fleet” (FLOTLOG) program, carried out by the General Directorate of Armament (DGA) and developed in cooperation with Italy, through the multinational LSS (Logistic Support Ship) project, coordinated by the Joint Organization for Armament Cooperation (OCCAR).
The forward section of French ships, including that of the Jacques Stosskopf, was manufactured by the Italian Fincantieri.
The DGA acts as the program coordinator, overseeing everything from cost and schedule management to the validation of integrated combat systems.
The ship will be equipped with modern systems such as the RAPIDFire S40SA from Thales and the Mistral SIMBAD RC missile launcher from MBDA.
Clearly Defined Industrial Responsibilities
While Chantiers de l’Atlantique leads the project, construction, and commissioning of the propulsion platform and living quarters, Naval Group takes responsibility for the integration and maintenance of military systems.
This division of tasks ensures synergy between the civilian structures and the defense components of the vessel.
The Jacques Stosskopf has 24 MW of total installed power, enabling it to operate autonomously even in hostile zones, facing aerial, surface, and asymmetric threats.
The integrated combat system elevates the vessel to a new level of versatility and security in logistics missions.
Next Steps Towards Final Delivery
After this initial campaign of sea trials, the ship Jacques Stosskopf will undergo further evaluation phases until its official incorporation into the French fleet, expected for the fall of 2025.
The expectation is that the ship will be fully operational before the end of the year, solidifying the investment as a key component in France’s maritime defense strategy.
Combining cutting-edge engineering, international cooperation, and a focus on logistical efficiency, the ship Jacques Stosskopf is a symbol of a new era in French maritime operations.

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