French Ministry of Defense orders fifth FDI frigate from Naval Group

The Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) has just placed an order with Naval Group for the fifth defense and intervention frigate (FDI) to strengthen and modernize the French Navy.

The fifth defense and intervention frigate (FDI), which will be named Admiral Cabanier, has been ordered. The Ministry of Armed Forces announced on Thursday in a statement the order by the DGA (General Directorate of Armaments) for a fifth FDI from Naval Group, destined for the French Navy, in accordance with what was planned in the Military Programming Law (LPM). Here is what is known about this program.

What is the FDI program?

Launched in 2017, the FDI program, constructed by Naval Group in Lorient, aims to modernize and strengthen the Navy “with high-performing, versatile, cutting-edge technology and innovation ships” explains the Ministry of Armed Forces. The first FDI, Admiral Ronarc’h, was delivered on October 17 and is currently carrying out its deployment within the French Navy. The deliveries of the other four frigates in the series – Admiral Louzeau, Admiral Castex, Admiral Nomy and Admiral Cabanier – will be spread between 2027 and 2032, in accordance with the Military Programming Law 2024-2030.

“Ready to operate in all areas”

With its length of 122 meters, a width of 18 meters, and a tonnage of 4,500 tons, it can sail at 27 knots and has a 45-day autonomy. It is a combat ship intended for long-term and far-reaching deployments in crisis zones. It is “ready to operate in all areas: anti-ship warfare, anti-aircraft warfare, anti-submarine warfare, lu(…)

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