Le Triomphant-class

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Summary

Origin country 🇫🇷 France
Category Submarine
SubtypeNuclear ballistic missile submarine
ManufacturerDCNS
Year commissioned1997
Approx. unit cost$3.1 billion
UnitsS616 LE TRIOMPHANT, S617 LE TEMERAIRE, S618 LE VIGILANT, S619 LE TERRIBLE
Current operators 🇫🇷 France

Description

The Submarine Le Triomphant class is a fleet of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) that serve as a crucial component of France's nuclear deterrent force. Designed and built by the French shipbuilding company DCNS, this class consists of four submarines: Le Triomphant, L'Inflexible, Le Téméraire, and Le Vigilant.

These submarines are equipped with the latest technological advancements, ensuring their effectiveness in carrying out their strategic missions. With an overall length of approximately 138 meters and a submerged displacement of around 14,335 tons, these vessels have a formidable presence in the seas. The submarines are propelled by a nuclear reactor, which allows for extended periods of submerged operation without the need for refueling.

The submarines are armed with advanced M51 ballistic missiles, which carry multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs). These MIRVs can deliver a lethal payload to multiple targets with high precision, making the Le Triomphant class submarines a potent force capable of striking targets at long ranges from underwater positions. Additionally, these submarines are equipped with advanced sonar systems, ensuring their ability to detect and evade enemy threats.

The crew of the Submarine Le Triomphant class consists of skilled and well-trained personnel who carry out day-to-day operations and maintenance tasks. The crew's dedication and expertise ensure that these submarines can effectively execute their missions while maintaining a high level of readiness.

Technical specifications

Le Triomphant
Displacement12400 tons
Displacement submerged14335 tons
Range Unlimited, except by food supplies
Crew111 members
Width12.5 m (41.0 ft)
Length138.0 m (452.8 ft)
Max. depth500 m (1640.4 ft)
Propulsion

1 K 15 reactor with a power of 41,500 hp - 1 pumpjet

Armament

16 M45 (6 MIRVs of 150 kT) + 4 533mm TLTs (18 torpedoes / missiles)

Maximum speed25 knots
Max. speed submerged25 knots

Photo of Le Triomphant class

Le Triomphant-class

Silhouette

Le Triomphant-class silhouette