France begins final tests of SSN Duguay-Trouin, a next-generation nuclear-powered submarine capable of carrying Exocet SM39 missiles and FM21 torpedoes

The SSN Duguay-Trouin, the latest nuclear-powered submarine, has entered the final testing phase. It will be handed over to the military in the summer of 2023.

Here's What We Know

The SSN Duguay-Trouin is a next-generation Barracuda-class submarine equipped with a nuclear engine manufactured by TechnicAtome. At the end of March, the submarine's final testing phase began at the Normandy naval base. This was announced by the French Ministry of Defence and the Naval Group shipbuilding company.

The Barracuda-class submarines are intended to replace the Rubis submarines of the 1980s. The programme was launched in 2006. The first submarine is called SSN Suffren. It arrived in 2021 and entered service with the French Navy a year later.

The Naval Group said four submarines are now at different stages of production. They are called SSN Tourville, SSN De Grasse, SSN Rubis and SSN Casabianca and are expected to enter service by 2030.

The Barracuda-class submarines carry Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles and FM21 torpedoes. They will also be capable of long-range cruise missile strikes. They will remain in service until the 2060s.

Source: The Defence News