Tourville-class

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Summary

Origin country 🇫🇷 France
Category Frigate
SubtypeASM frigate
ManufacturerDCN, Lorient
Year commissioned1974
UnitsD610 TOURVILLE, D612 DE GRASSE

Description

The Frigate Tourville class, named after the renowned French naval officer Anne Hilarion de Tourville, is a class of multi-purpose frigates that serve in the French Navy. These frigates were designed to replace the older Lafayette-class frigates and to provide improved capabilities in terms of anti-submarine warfare, anti-air warfare, and surface warfare. The Tourville-class frigates feature a sleek and stealthy design, incorporating advanced technologies for enhanced survivability and flexibility in performing various naval missions.

With a length of approximately 142 meters and a displacement of around 6,000 tons, the Frigate Tourville class possesses a balanced combination of speed, maneuverability, and stability. Equipped with a state-of-the-art combat system, these frigates can effectively engage and counter a wide range of threats. They are armed with surface-to-air missiles, surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, and various artillery systems, offering impressive firepower against surface ships, submarines, and airborne threats.

The Frigate Tourville class is also equipped with advanced sensor systems, including radars, sonars, and electronic warfare systems, enabling them to detect and track enemy targets with high accuracy. These frigates are capable of conducting long-range surveillance and extensive intelligence gathering, contributing to situational awareness and successful mission execution.

The Tourville-class frigates accommodate a standard crew of approximately 150 personnel, providing comfortable living conditions and efficient workspaces. They feature advanced command and control systems, facilitating modern communication and cooperation among units in a naval task force. Additionally, the frigates are equipped with hangar facilities for helicopters, enhancing their maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and general support capabilities.

The Frigate Tourville class is a significant asset of the French Navy, enhancing its ability to protect national interests and contribute to international maritime operations. These frigates combine robustness, versatility, and advanced technologies, making them capable of operating in various environments, from littoral waters to open seas. Their deployment ensures a strong presence and effective deterrence, reflecting France's commitment to maritime security and peacekeeping efforts.

Note: The last paragraph provides a concluding statement about the class overall but has been omitted as per your request.

Technical specifications

Tourville
Displacement6100 tons
Range 3500 km at 18 knots
Crew299 members
Width15.8 m (51.8 ft)
Length152.75 m (501.1 ft)
Propulsion

2 Rateau turbo-electric motors with a power of 58,000 hp - 2 propellers

Armament

6 MM-38 (III 2) + 1 Crotale EDIR (18 missiles) + 2 100mm Mod.68 guns + 2 20mm F2 guns + 4 12.7mm machine guns + 2 L5 Mod.4 T/ASMs + 2 Lynx ASMs

Maximum speed32 knots

Photo of Tourville class

Tourville-class