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Mer et Marinewww.meretmarine.comM a r i t i m e securit y «N e w ships «S y s t e m s & subs y s t e m s «A i r c r a f t «$US12.00 - ¤9.00NAVAL FORCES Focus on French Technology2014-2015Published by:

Focus on French Technology46» Editorial» Future shipsWARSHIPS81418334042» Force projection» Frigates» Corvettes & OPVs» Patrol vessels & interceptors» RHIBs» SubmarinesSYSTEMS & SUBSYSTEMS5256606268» MCM with UxVs» Inertial platforms» Combat systems» Sensors» CountermeasuresWEAPONS70 » Torpedoes & missilesFront cover:» Gowind 2500 (© DCNS)» Rafale & NH90 (© MN - A. MONOT)» Ecume (© MN - A. MONOT)» FREMM (© DCNS)AIRCRAFT768286» Combat aircraft & helicopters» UAVs» Surveillance aircraftMARITIME SAFETY & SECURITY88 » Maritime surveillanceSERVICES929496» Maintenance & modernisation» Technology transfers» TrainingFrench-Englishglossary of naval defenceSteve DysonE-book format.Searchable and indexable.First edition, v3.ISBN: 978-989-97568-0-9Lulu spotlight:www.lulu.com/spotlight/SteveDysonMer et Marine « publié par SAS Le Télégramme 7 voie d'accès au port 29600 Morlaix (FRANCE) - Directeur de publication Edouard COUDURIER « Contenu éditorial, GLCDK Media, Agence de presse et d’information - 2 rue Crucy44000 Nantes (France) - Gérant Gildas LE CUNFF de KAGNAC - Rédacteur en chef Vincent GROIZELEAU vincent.groizeleau@meretmarine.com - Traduction éditoriale Steve DYSON steve.dyson.sdc@gmail.com avec l’équipe de E-Files «Direction artistique Vincent WISNIEWSKI wisniewskivince@aol.com « responsable de projet et distribution Le Télégramme Fabien CHARMETANT f.charmetant@letelegramme.fr - Publicité, responsable grands comptes Hélène MARZALhelene.marzal@meretmarine.com «Imprimé en France par SIB, zone industrielle de la Liane B.P. 343 - 62205 Boulogne-sur-Mer Cedex « Dépôt légal: octobre 2014.Toutes reproductions, intégrales ou partielles, des textes ainsi que de la charte graphique est strictement interdite sans l’autorisation écrite de leurs auteurs comme de l’éditeur.For daily news (in French) visit us at www.meretmarine.com

» Puissance aéronavaleMer et Marine4INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015© DCNSMaritime affairs and naval forces:France leads the way

5Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Editorial «"Human endeavour will inexorably turnto the seas," said General de Gaulle in1969. "Men will seek knowledge andwealth in the oceans, and naturallynations will struggle for maritimedominance to control the resourcesthat lie therein."Visionary words indeed. As we depletethe planet's resources on land, weare turning to the seas to exploittheir oil and gas, precious metalsand rare earths, fisheries and energysources. This enormous potentialmakes the maritime space a strategicresource in its own right, a key reservefor a burgeoning population and amuch needed engine of economicgrowth. The blue revolution is a hugeopportunity for humanity – and a majorsource of strife. As dozens of nationsclamour to extend their exclusiveeconomic zones, tensions are rising.Territorial disputes and incidents at seaare on the rise in some regions and therisk of future conflicts is real.The world economy is totallydependent on shipping. With 50,000commercial vessels plying the oceanswith their cargoes of raw materials andconsumer goods, maritime transportis the primary driver of globalisationand world trade. This rising tide ofcommerce is nowhere near its peak:maritime freight volumes, which havealready grown five-fold in the last 30years, are expected to double by 2020.But maritime transport has an Achillesheel. This golden age will only surviveif shipping can move freely throughstrategic zones like the Gulf of Aden,the Strait of Hormuz and the SuezCanal. Regional crises and the threatof piracy and terrorism extract a heavytoll on all whose livelihoods dependon maritime trade and exploitingmarine resources.Nations equip their naval forces andmaritime agencies not only to protectterritorial waters but to safeguardsupply chains and strategic interests.From patrol vessels to aircraft carriers,from commando boats to amphibiousassault ships – not to mentionsubmarines and guided missiledestroyers – maritime dominancecomes in all shapes and sizes. Navalpower may be visible or discreet. Itmay be used as a deterrent to supporta country's diplomatic efforts. Buthowever a naval force is structured,strength at sea is considered a strategicnecessity. With major programmesunder way in China, India and Brazil,among others, rising powers evidentlybelieve that capable navies can make adifference in today's world.France is one of the world's greatmaritime nations. With an exclusiveeconomic zone spanning 11 millionsquare kilometres, France maintainsa presence in all the seas and oceansand is leading the way in naval andmaritime affairs. The French maritimeindustry includes some of the biggestnames in commercial shipbuilding,offshore oil & gas, marine scienceand research, and marine renewableenergy. In naval defence, Frenchexpertise is internationally acclaimed:the breadth of capabilities of theFrench naval industry is unrivalled inEurope, and French technologies areamong the world's most advanced .From simple software tools to complexwarships, French industry offersinternational customers the broadestrange of naval solutions and servicescombining cost-effective equipmentand French technologies with thebenefits of constant innovation anda unique understanding of operationalrequirements.France's naval defence industry is alsoleading the way in technology transferprogrammes, helping client countriesto build strong local industries andtechnical skills. France is committedto sharing its Navy's operationalexperience so that partners and alliesare not only among the best equippedin the world but also have the besttrained personnel to deploy theirnaval capabilities. «Vincent GROIZELEAUEditor-in-chief, Mer et Marine© MARINE NATIONALE

» Future shipsMer et Marine6INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015Innovation, the keyto better warshipsFrench naval industry contractors are engaged in a range of R&D programmesto develop innovative products and systems offering cost-effective performance.Important announcements are expected over the next few years.Aside from long-term R&D, the Frenchnaval industry aims to introducea steady stream of technologicalinnovations meeting the needs ofclient navies. DCNS, a long-timeleader in naval R&D draws not only onits own broad expertise, but also ona long tradition of collaboration withpartners like Thales, MBDA, Sagem,Airbus Defence & Space and STXFrance. The group also draws on theknow-how of a vast network of SMEsand partnerships with engineeringschools and laboratories all over thecountry. The entire industry is thusfocused on innovation and solutionsto maintain its standing in the internationalmarketplace.DCNS has identified six top priorities.First, information superiority. R&Din this area aims to make availableopen high-performance systems thatare rugged, user-friendly and meetoperational challenges. These systemsmust work well in increasingly complexenvironments and accommodateexplosive growth in data exchanges,the growing importance of joint andallied operations and the need forimproved protection against cyberattacks. The anticipated advances willfocus on functional and operationalaspects of combat systems along withtactile technologies and augmentedreality to transform ops room andbridge into more intuitive workplaces.The French naval industry also aimsto develop new combat capabilitiesto counter asymmetric threats andthe proliferation of ballistic weaponsand submarines. Current R&Dprogrammes focus on the deploymentof the naval component of tacticalballistic missile defence (TBMD)systems, the integration of directedenergyweapons (including railgunsand high-power lasers) and improvedASW systems.© DCNS© MARINE NATIONALE© DCNS

7Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Future ships «© DCNS © AIRBUS DEFENCE & SPACEUnmanned systems promise to expandwarship capabilities. In addition tosurveillance missions, armed UAVs willbring big changes in the way militaryoperations are conducted. An earlyleader, DCNS offers a unique integratedsolution enabling surface combatantsto launch and recover multi-sensor orarmed UAVs. The group is also workingon multi-platform engagement and theintegration of unmanned combat airvehicles with aircraft carriers.The integrated topside is anotherpriority. DCNS and Thales aredeveloping new concepts tointegrate masts and superstructurewith fixed and panoramic systemsgrouping together all surveillance,communications and EW resources.New materials and antennatechnologies promise solutions toelectromagnetic compatibility issuesbetween different systems. Supportedby French defence procurement agencyDGA, this major programme aims todevelop highly integrated topsideswhile ensuring the simultaneous andnominal operation of all sensors andcommunications systems, an objectivethat still presents big challenges.Meanwhile, contractors are workingon dynamic stealth, a conceptto improve combat survival bydynamically adjusting observablesto circumstances allowing warshipsto melt into the electromagneticenvironment, particularly inlittoralwaters.Lower fuel and energy consumptionis another priority, not least to meetthe challenge of rising fuel costs.Improved fuel and energy efficiencyare also needed to accommodate theforthcoming introduction of high-energytechnologies like new-generationsensors and directed-energy weapons.Reduced hydrodynamic drag, moreefficient propulsion systems and fuelefficientauxiliaries will all contributeas will smart shipboard energymanagement and compact hybridpropulsion systems. Over the next fiveyears, DCNS aims to reduce the FrenchNavy's annual oil consumption by 20%.With many of these innovationsexpected to become available quitesoon, platform capabilities, operationand efficiency will improve andnavies can look forward to loweroperating costs. «

DEAC carrier© DCNSDCNS is the only company to offer afully fledged aircraft carrier on theinternational market. Drawing on over50 years of experience with the FrenchNavy and the successful delivery ofworld-class programmes such as theCharles de Gaulle aircraft carrier commissionedin 2001, the French grouphas developed the DCNS Evolved AircraftCarrier concept.The DCNS Evolved Aircraft Carrier(DEAC) is based on a CATOBAR configuration(catapult-assisted take-off,barrier-arrested recovery), whichoffers vastly superior capabilities comparedto STOBAR (short take-off, barrier-arrestedrecovery) or STOVL (shorttake-off and vertical landing) solutionsadopted for the United Kingdom'sfuture Queen Elisabeth class carriersor Italy's Cavour programme. The keybenefit of a catapult system is theamount of power it provides, enablingaircraft to carry more fuel and a heavierweapons payload.The DEAC is a compact carrier designedto bring emerging naval forces apower projection capability on a parwith the French Navy. DCNS engineershave maximised the platform's aviationcapabilities, with a 13,500m² flightdeck offering space for two runwaysequipped with 90m catapults to supportoperations with heavier aircraft.The movement of aircraft, equipmentand munitions, as well as fuelling, armingand taxiing operations and transfersbetween the flight deck and hangarbay, have been optimised for up to75 sorties per day. The DEAC has two36t lifts and an angled runway withtriple arresting cables and emergencybarrier. Featuring the SETIS combatmanagement system developed for theFREMM frigates and Gowind corvettes,the new DCNS aircraft carrier for internationalmarkets carries a comprehensivearray of electronic systems andequipment as well as a self-defencesystem based on Aster missiles andremotely operated guns.With its payload capacities of 8,400tof fuel oil and 400t of munitions, theDEAC offers excellent range capabilitiesand at-sea endurance. Variousdual-shaftline propulsion system optionsare available, including CODLAG(combined diesel-electric and gas) andCOGAG (combined gas turbine andgas turbine). «» DESIGNER: DCNS» DISPLACEMENT: 52,000 t» DIMENSIONS (M): 272 x 67» SPEED: 28 kts» RANGE:8,000 NM at 20 kts5,000 NM at 22 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 1,770Crew: 900Aero: 650Commanding: 120Passengers: 100» WEAPONS:16 x Aster 15 missilesRemotely controlled guns40 aircrafts» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radars: 3D MFR + 3D MRRDecoy launchers© DCNS

9Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Force projection «LogisticsupportDCNS and STX France have developedthe Brave family of logistic supportships. With an innovative designincorporating all the latest advancesin naval architecture, Brave shipsoffer fuel savings in the order of 15to 20% compared to conventionalplatforms. Adding to the operationalvalue of this new family of supportships, a new concept reduces thetime spent replenishing warships atsea to an absolute minimum. This isimportant, given a ship's vulnerabilitywhile being resupplied with fuel, foodand munitions, or carrying out a crewrotation. With the new replenishmentconcept, replenishment operationsare optimised to support multipleflows or materials simultaneouslywithout causing bottlenecks on boardeither vessel. In addition to four rigsfor replenishment-at-sea operationsand two heavy cargo rigs, the Braveconcept also includes a hangar for twohelicopters, ample space for helicopterrotations and a flight deck that canaccommodate 35t class helos. Whenthe ship is docked, two cranes areavailable to handle containers or stowmissiles for frigates and submarines.The Brave family of double-hulledtankers is available in several sizesfrom 180 to 205m, and has beendesigned to minimise risks. Separatestorage areas for fuels and munitionsare provided, highly secure and locatedaway from the crew areas. Capacitiesrange from 8,000 to 16,000m3 of fuel(in 6 to 9 tanks), 1,500m3 of freshwater (2 tanks), 2,700m² for up to2,000t of cargo and 30 TEU containers,as well as 300t of munitions in 700m²of stowage space divided into 4 holds.Aft, 300m² of workshop space isavailable for equipment repairs andan additional 1,000m² of deck spacefor cargo and vehicles, which areloaded and unloaded via a side door.The design can also include an aftgate close to the waterline for easytransfers of cargo and supplies tolanding craft. Brave ships can also beused to provide logistic support formilitary bases and strongholds as wellas for humanitarian operations in areaswithout port infrastructure. Otherdesign features include a 30 to 60-bedhospital and accommodation for 200(100 crew + 100 passengers).The Brave concept was the basis for astudy contract awarded to DCNS andSTX in 2012 as part of the FLOTLOGprogramme to provide the French Navywith three new logistic support ships.For this programme, a new electricpropulsion version has been proposed,with the diesel generators locatedforward and the electric propulsionmotors located aft. This architectureallows for better separation of civilianand military functions, with the centralsection reserved for liquids and inertcargo and munitions stored aft. It alsoeliminates the funnels over the hangerarea and improves horizontal flows ofdry cargo. «» DISPLACEMENT: 28,000 t» DIMENSIONS (m):180/205 x 28 x 8.7» SPEED: 18 to 20 kts» RANGE: 10,000 NM at 18 kts» ACCOMMODATION:100 (+ 100)» WEAPONS:Remotely controlled gunsAnti-air systems2 helicopters» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Integrated mast© DCNS© DCNS

» Force projectionMer et Marine10INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015MistralSince entering activeservice, the three Mistralclassforce projection andcommand vessels delivered to theFrench Navy between 2006 and 2012have amply demonstrated the validityof the BPC* design concept developedby DCNS and STX France. Thesehighly versatile vessels have beensuccessfully deployed in a variety ofroles from civilian evacuation (Lebanon,2006) and humanitarian cargo logistics(Myanmar, 2008) to the deployment ofattack helicopters (Libya, 2011) andforce projection (specifically militaryvehicles and equipment) to a remotetheatre of operations (Mali, 2013).Numerous international exerciseshave also demonstrated the vessels'strengths in amphibious operationswith joint and allied forces thanks totheir interoperability and commandresources. On several occasions, FrenchMistral-class ships have served as theNato Response Force's maritime HQ.The BPC concept having beendesigned from the outset tocommand large-scale operations,the communications suite includesL11 and L16 datalinks plus Syracuse,Fleetsatcom, Rita, Saturn, V-Sat andInmarsat satellite links. The vast(850sq.m), reconfigurable commandarea is designed to accommodate HQteams of to 150. HQ operators monitorthe air/sea/land situation in realtime on consoles receiving data andintelligence from national and alliedunits via datalinks.In the carrier role, the BPC's 5,600sq.mflush deck can handle simultaneousoperations by six NH90- or Tiger-classhelicopters. The reinforced bow spot,already successfully tested by heavy USrotorcraft, offers additional flexibility.The flight deck is served by two liftsand a 1,800sq.m hangar completewith maintenance bays and space forsixteen NH90- and Tiger-class helos(or around 30 Gazelle-size machines).Topside servicing, refuelling andreloading of combat helos is greatlyfacilitated by dedicated munitions liftssupplying rockets, missiles and bombsdirectly from the magazines. Fast deckturnaround allows BPC-based heloscan fly more rotations than thosebased on other carriers.For amphibious assault operations, the885-sq.m well dock can accommodatefour LCM-type landing craft, twoEDAR-type fast catamarans or twoLCAC-type air-cushion craft. For forceprojection, whether onto a beach orvia an improvised port, mechanisedcombat units are deployed from thetwo garage decks with space (totalling2,650sq.m) for close to 100 vehiclesincluding battle tanks. These decksare linked by a ramp ensuring directaccess to the well dock. If necessary,© MARINE NATIONALE» DISPLACEMENT: 21,000 t» DIMENSIONS (m): 199 x 32 x 6.2» POWER: 14 MW» SPEED: 19 kts» RANGE: 11,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 180 (+450)» WEAPONS:2 anti-air systems2 x 20 mm16 helicopters» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radar: MRR-3D

11Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSForce projection «the aircraft lifts can be used to movevehicles to and from extra parkingareas on the flight deck. The BPCdesign also offers accommodationfor 450 troops, or 900 for shortperiods of time.The baseline hospital area isparticularly well equipped. Thestandard 750sq.m configurationoffers 69 beds, a serious burns ward,a medical imagery area with spacefor a scanner, and two operatingtheatres fully equipped for a full rangeof procedures. The medical team canalso use the ship's communicationssystems for remote diagnosis andrelated services in conjunction withshore-based specialists. If necessary,250sq.m of hangar space can beused as a hospital extension. Thisarea being adjacent to the aircraftlifts, patients can be moved quicklyand efficiently to and from evacuationaircraft. With hangar extension wardsand facilities, total capacity comes to119 beds and four operating theatresserved by 100 medical staff, includinga dozen surgeons. Exploiting the flightdeck and well deck to the full, the typeis ideal for humanitarian assistanceand evacuation missions, particularlywhere ports and other infrastructureare lacking or unusable following anatural disaster.BPC derivatives can be tailoredto the needs of different navies,with platforms from 159 to 215mand displacements from 14,000 to28,000t. Classified by Bureau Veritas,these ships are designed to operate inany region of the world, including thecoldest climates. Various standardsare available, and shipboard systemsarchitectures and equipment canbe configured to each customer'srequirements. With the versatileMistral concept, the same class caninclude force projection vessels aswell as smaller ships for humanitarianmissions and logistics operations. Theentry-level Mistral 170, for example,is a compact variant measuring 169mand displacing 14,000t fully loaded. Ithas a maximum speed of 20kts andcan travel 6,000nm at 15kts. The flightdeck features five helo spots, hangarspace for 12 helicopters, garage spacefor 50 vehicles and deck storage spacefor 85 containers. «* In Nato terminology, these ships are classifiedas landing helicopter docks, or LHDs. The BPCbaseline (from bâtiment de projection et decommandement, or projection and commandvessel) features a flush-deck architecture.© MARINE NATIONALE

Mer et Marine12INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015© MARINE NATIONALEL-CATThe L-CAT or Landing Catamaranis a fast landingcraft concept developedby CNIM. It has been operational since2012 with the French Navy, which orderedfour L-CATs for its Mistral-classvessels. The L-CAT has an aluminiumhull and a central lift platform rated at80t that can be raised or lowered asneeded to allow loading and unloadingof armoured vehicles, including a mainbattle tank. With the platform raised,the L-CAT can reach speeds of 18ktswith a full load, thanks to its catamaranconfiguration. To unload, the platformis lowered, transforming the vesselinto a beachable flat-bottomed landingcraft. The L-CAT has two ramps, enablingit to load and unload from eitherend. This roll-on/roll-off capability facilitatesmanoeuvres and makes it easierto manage cargo and equipment in thepayload dock. Compared with conventionalcraft, CNIM's L-CAT solutionoffers significantly improved speed,endurance, seakeeping and flexibilityfor more efficient amphibious operations.It can also be deployed furtherfrom the coastline for launching surpriseattacks while allowing the hostvessel to remain at a safe distance, outof range of enemy defences. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 30 x 12.6» POWER: 5,360 kW» SPEED: 18 to 30 kts» RANGE: 500 to 700 NM» ACCOMMODATION: 4» WEAPONS: 2 x 12.7 mm© JEAN-LOUIS VENNEMPC» DIMENSIONS (m): 40 x 17.4 x 2» POWER: 4,300 kW» SPEED: 21 kts» RANGE: 1,500 NM» ACCOMMODATION: 12 (+ 16)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© CNIMBuilding on the success of the L-Cat,CNIM has developed a family of hybridpatrol vessels and landing catamarans.The Multipurpose Patrol Craft isa member of this family.The aluminium-hulled MPC featuresa bridge above the central platform(rated at 60t) and is designed to carryhumanitarian or military equipmentand vehicles, including armouredvehicles, on the open ocean. Likethe EDAR and L-Cat 44 landing craft,the MPC can beach to load or unloadpassengers and cargo. With the platformlowered the catamaran becomesa flat-bottomed boat with a draughtof just 75cm (instead of the catamaran’s2m), enabling it to manoeuvrein shallow waters before landing itspayload. It can also serve as a smallmother ship, launching high-speedRHIBs from the lowered platform. Withaccommodation for 30, the designincludes a sick bay and living area. Yetanother potential application is as anoil spill response vessel from offshoreto coastal areas. «

13Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Force projection «CTM NGDCNS teamed with STX France to developa robust new landing craft thatis easy to maintain and expands thecapabilities of Mistral-class vessels formore effective amphibious operations.Designers adopted a holistic approachto the Mistral's landing capability, withCTM NG as an integral componentof a Mistral-based amphibious assaultforce.Compared with previous-generationcraft, the CTM NG system offers threekey benefits. First, its roll-on/roll-off(RORO) capability, with a ramp at eachend for quick and easy loading andunloading of vehicles from ship to shipand ship to shore and inside the welldock of an amphibious transport ship.The CTM NG ramp system also allowseach landing craft to connect withothers. Combined with the ROROconcept, this makes it possible to reconfigurepayloads as needed beforelanding operations are launched, resultingin greater resource flexibility andshorter response times.© STX FRANCESecond, the CTM NG's dimensions andpayload (65t) have been optimised fordeployment from the well dock of theMistral 200, which can accommodatefour craft of this type. Its propulsionsystem has also been improved fora higher top speed. Able to carry aLeclerc main battle tank, two VBCItypeheavy armoured vehicles or threeVAB-type light armoured vehicles, thenew landing craft from DCNS offersspeeds in excess of 12.3kts whenloaded and 13.4kts when empty. Thismeans shorter transit times and fewerrotations between the host vesseland beachhead, substantially raisingthe tempo of amphibious operations.The third key benefit of the CTM NGis high manoeuvrability. Powered bythree diesel engines, the new versionis much more manoeuvrable thanprevious-generation craft, thanks toits three hydraulic pods, two of whichare steerable. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 26.5 x 6.5» POWER: 1,500 kW» SPEED: 13 kts» RANGE: 500 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 3» WEAPONS: 2 x 12.7

15Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSFrigates «news» DISPLACEMENT: 6,000 t» DIMENSIONS (M): 142 x 20 x 6 m» POWER: 32 MW» SPEED: 27 kts» RANGE: 6,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 108» WEAPONS:16 x MdCN missiles16 x Aster 15 missiles8 x Exocet MM40 Block3 missiles1 x 76 or 127 mm - 2 x 20 mm4 x Torpedoes (19 MU90)1 Helicopter + UAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radar: HeraklesSonars: CAPTAS 4 + 4110Decoy launchers: NGDS + SLATthe 11 FREMM frigates ordered for theFrench Navy in 2009.The design concept's chief strengthsare its versatility and the consistentchoice of the very best systems andsubsystems. New-generation antiair,anti-surface and anti-submarinesystems and electronics give FREMMfrigates the upper hand against alltypes of threats, including asymmetricforces, whether on the high seas orin littoral waters. Powerful carryingcruise missiles also enable thesevessels to knock out land targets froma safe stand-off range.FREMM frigates tailored for antisubmarinewarfare, a key designrole, have demonstrated exceptionalperformance in exercises againstreal submarines. Thanks to its hybridCODLOG (COmbined Diesel eLectric OrGas) propulsion system, the resultingacoustic discretion in silent mode andstate-of-the-art sonars, including theCaptas 4 towed array, FREMM frigateAquitaine offers a step change in ASW.Manoeuvres under exercise conditionsdemonstrated that the Aquitainecan locate enemy submarines muchearlier than other ASW vessels whileremaining more difficult for submarinesto detect. With their organic helicopterequipped with the Flash dipping sonarand MU90 lightweight torpedoes, theFrench Navy's ASW variant FREMMfrigates are a deadly threat to even themost modern submarines. «© MARINE NATIONALE© BERNARD PREZELEIN

17Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Frigates «Optimised crewing and maintenanceTo minimise operating and upkeep costs,FREMM frigates are designed from stem tostern for advanced platform automation. Astandard-fit FREMM requires a complementof just 94, half the number required to manearlier generation vessels with similarcapabilities.Operating procedures have beenthoroughly optimised to further reducecrewing. This is particularly true of the ops(operations) room, the new DCNS-designedcombat management system and the 14multifunctional consoles controlling andcoordinating the ship's combat system andsensor suite. The Setis CMS automaticallyaggregates, analyses and displays incomingsensor data to determine thevessel's tactical situation which can thenbe shared other units. As the name implies,the CMS's prime function is to managethe combat system. CMS operators workon user-friendly displays presentingprecisely the information they need. Thefully reconfigurable consoles featureintuitive interfaces giving direct access toall CMS functions. Operators can optimiseworkload sharing and the number assignedto any given task, according to the tacticalsituation.The Ship Management System controlsall platform tasks and functions frompropulsion and power generation tocapabilities, alarms, fire-fighting and soforth. All of this information is displayed onSMS consoles in the ops room and on thebridge. The watch can thus monitor the SMSand control propulsion directly as and whennecessary. To ensure graceful recovery inthe event of a failure or combat damage, theSMS and the CMS share a fully-redundantarchitecture featuring multiple CPUs anddispersed autonomous networks.Upkeep (aka maintenance or through-lifesupport) has benefited from a range oftechnological and design innovations tofacilitate equipment handling, inspection,repair and changeouts. A level-two upkeepmaintenance period (UMP) lasting 60 daysis scheduled after 42 months' service.Each FREMM frigate will, in addition, bedrydocked for 135 days for a level-threeUMP after 120 months at sea. The fact thatthe Aquitaine completed two years at seawithout a day in drydock suggests that thisschedule should work well. The Aquitainehas experienced very few failures and thefew that have occurred have been quicklyresolved. The evidence suggests that thetype's innovations and upkeep strategiesare paying off. «JammerHerakles radarAnti-shipmissilesSiyver launchers(Aster & MdCN missiles)127-mm gunTorpedo launcherEmergencythrusterHull sonar

Sea and Navy18INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015DefendseasIn addition to contributing to MistraltypeLHD programmes and theBrave logistic support vessel projectin cooperation with DCNS, STXFrance's Saint-Nazaire shipyard alsoproposes its own range of frigatesand corvettes. This effort began withthe New-Generation SurveillanceFrigate, a modernised version of theeight Floréal-class vessels deliveredto the French and Moroccan Navies inthe 1990s and 2000s. More recently,STX France took the world by surprisewhen it announced the Defendseascorvette based on a ground-breakingconcept. The design arose as part of anR&D project looking at new conceptsfor civil and naval vessels. A dedicatedproject team has been in place since2013.Drawing on advances by the Ecorizon®green lifecycle R&D team, which havebrought significant improvements in theenergy efficiency and environmentalperformance of STX France products,Defendseas integrates varioustechnological building blocks andinnovations with an architectureoptimised to meet customer needs.The result is a complete toolbox of newideas that can be mixed and matchedto expand the capabilities of warshipsof all displacements according to thecustomer's operational requirements.The Defendseas team has also builton STX France's expertise in civiland naval shipbuilding to propose aplatform combining proven solutionswith an innovative architecture andlayout. One of the eye-catchingfeatures of the corvette design is aningenious helo handling system in theform of a lift that fits between twosections of a retractable deck. As aresult, the superstructure volumenormally occupied by the hangar canbe reappropriated, with all storagespaces moved to the lower deckand all platform management andaccommodation located separately.Overall, the new design offers betteruse of available volumes.The hangar opens directly aft ontoa 500sq.m modular space dividedinto three mission-configurable bays(typically for 9.5m heavy RHIBs) andfour more for 20 foot containers (foradditional RHIBs or light militaryvehicles). The rigid-hull inflatable boatsare launched and recovered one or twoat a time via a stern ramp and two sidedoors. All RHIBs and containers arehandled by a single overhead crane.The superstructure combines apanoramic bridge offering 360° vision,the flight deck control station, the livingquarters and all operational areas,including the ops room with its six toeight consoles. The superstructurealso houses a space for an unmannedaircraft system (UAS).The Defendseas combat systemincludes 12 vertical launch cells near theflight deck for surface-to-air missiles,four anti-ship missiles stored in pairedlaunchers, a 76mm gun flanked bya pair of 12.7mm machine guns onthe forward deck, and two remotelycontrolled 20mm machine guns aft.The sensor suite features a 3D searchradar and an optronic fire control system.Last but not least, the superstructure,weapon systems and payload areall designed for optimal stealth. «» DISPLACEMENT: 2,500 t» DIMENSIONS (m): 90 x 15» SPEED: 25 kts» RANGE: 6,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 70» WEAPONS:12 x SAM missiles (VLS)4 x SSM missiles1 x 76 mm2 x 20 mm1 Helicopter» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radars: 3D, S-Band, X-Band© STX FRANCE © STX FRANCE

19Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Corvettes & OPVs «C Sword 90© CMNThe C Sword 90 is the largest warshipdesigned by CMN to date and probablyone of the most innovative on themarket today. Incorporating the lateststealth technologies, the pioneeringhull design of this impressive corvetteensures excellent seakeeping whilereducing fuel consumption.The C Sword 90 is the first Frenchdesignedwarship to be offered witha planar-array radar with four arraysbuilt into the forward and aft masts toprovide permanent 360° surveillanceof the maritime and air environment.The ship's electronic systems andweaponry are coordinated by a combatmanagement system, with an opsroom comprising up to 10 multifunctionconsoles. With a highly automatedplatform management system, theC Sword 90 can be operated with areduced crew of just 65.Intended for high-intensity combat,CMN's new flagship excels in allenvironments, from the high seas tothe littoral. This compact corvette isfast and offers extended endurance,and is heavily armed to face all typesof threats. To counter threats fromsubmarines, the C Sword 90 offersparticularly advanced ASW capabilities,with a hull-mounted sonar and optionaltowed-array sonar.Its flight deck can accommodate a 10thelicopter and a small hangar with liftis included for two UAVs.Dedicated to EEZ surveillance andideally suited to littoral operations,the C Sword 90 can be deployed onintelligence-gathering missions with acomprehensive electronic warfare suite(R-ESM, C-ESM, etc.) and surveillanceequipment including a main radar andan electro-optical system also used forfire control.The new corvette is also ideal forspecial forces operations, withadditional accommodation for up to 20commandos and two side bays for apair of 11m RHIBs. This space can alsobe used to deploy unmanned surfaceor underwater vehicles. The C Sword90 features a storage area at the stern,with space for two 20ft containers.With this modular design, the corvetteto be configured for a broad range ofmission types. «» DIMENSIONS (M): 95 x 15.7» SPEED: 28 kts» RANGE: 7,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 65 (+ 20)» WEAPONS:8 x SSM - 16 x SAM - 2 x short-range SAM1 x 76 mm - 2 x 20 mm2 x 3 torpedoesUAVs - UUVs - SUVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radars: 4 x fixed array panelsHull mounted and© CMN

» Corvettes & OPVsMer et Marine20INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015Gowind familyDCNS has developeda family of corvettesfor navies wishing tomodernise their fleetsor add new-generationcompact warships that arerugged, reliable and wellarmed. Gowind corvettesand OPVs combine forceprojection capabilities with powerfulsensor and combat systems. Theseare controlled by a Setis combatmanagement system based on the CMSdeveloped for the FREMM multimissionfrigate programme. All Gowindvessels are true surface combatantsdesigned to Bureau Véritas NavalRules. Other features include essentialbackup equipment and systems anda compartment architecture ensuringhull stability in the event of flooding.The Gowind 2500, the largest of thefamily, has already proved a winnerwith ten units sold in 2013 and 2014.Malaysia placed an order for six to bebuilt in Malaysia, with DCNS technicalassistance, by Boustead NavalShipyard. The first of type is scheduledfor delivery in 2017. Egypt was next tosign up with an order for four units. Thefirst of these will be built at DCNS'sLorient shipyard while the others willbe built by a local shipyard under atechnology transfer agreement.Gowind 2500In addition to general naval combat,the Gowind 2500 can be outfitted formore specific missions such as antisubmarinewarfare. The ASW version'ssensor suite includes both a hullmountedsonar and a Captas 2 towedvariable-depth sonar ensuring highperformancesubmarine detection.The flight deck and hangar canaccommodate a 10t-class helicoptersuch as the NH90 or Seahawk, whichin turn can deploy a dipping sonar andlightweight torpedoes. With the addedbenefit of DCNS's proven expertise inplatform optimisation for improvedsonar efficiency, the Gowind 2500 isa formidable submarine hunter. Thisocean-going fighting ship is typicallyequipped with Exocet MM40 anti-shipmissile and VL Mica anti-air missiles,both by MBDA. The combat systemcan also include a powerful electronicwarfare suite, Thales's Vigile radarelectronic support measures (R ESM)system and a system to launch decoysmimicking the electromagnetic,infrared and acoustic signatures ofincoming weapons. Airspace surveillanceis provided by a 3D radar (NS100 or Smart S by Thales).The hangar and flight deck are sized fora 10t-class helo, but they can equallywell accommodate either a 5t-class heloand one unmanned aircraft system, oras many as three UASs. For commandooperations, the Gowind 2500 offersside bays for a pair of 6.5m RHIBs.Gowind 2500» DISPLACEMENT: 2,500 t» DIMENSIONS (m): 102 x 16» POWER: 10,000 kW» SPEED: 26 kts» RANGE: 3,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 65 (+ 15)» WEAPONS:8 x Exocet MM4016 x VL Mica1 x 76 mm - 2 x 20 mmTorpedo launchers1 Helicopter or 3 UAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radars: 3D, Captas 2 sonarDecoy launchers© DCNS

21Mer Sea and et Marine Navy2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS2012 « EURONAVAL Corvettes & OPVs «© DCNSGowind 1000To complement the top-of-the-rangeGowind 2500, DCNS recently addedthe entry-level Gowind 1000 fast patrolvessel to the family. The design drawsheavily on feedback from the FrenchNavy based on operational experiencewith Gowind OPV L'Adroit since2012. The new platform incorporatesseveral new innovations and stateof-the-artcombat capabilities. Likethe larger members of the family, theGowind 1000 features a Setis CMS forintegrated management of the sensorsuite and combat system, including thevessel's anti-ship and AAW missiles.With a top speed of 30kts and apanoramic (360°) bridge, the Gowind1000 is a true fast patrol vesseldesigned primarily for littoral combatand EEZ protection. The flight deck canaccommodate a 10t-class helicopterand a small hangar is included for anunmanned aircraft system (UAS).The new Gowind 1000 is exceptionallymodular. The DCNS design teamhas come up with an architectureoffering a vast modular space underthe flight deck complete with bothstern ramp and a starboard side doorfor RHIB deployment. This space canbe reconfigured in less than 48 hoursusing a range of mission modules, includingseveral supporting specialforces operations. The mission payloadcan, for instance, include up to fourRHIBs, two of which can be launchedor recovered at a time. Other modulesmight include diving gear, a decompressionchamber, unmanned underwaterand surface vehicles, or additionalaccommodation. As new needs emerge,DCNS is also proposing modules formine countermeasures using UUVs and/or USVs for mine detection, location,identification and neutralisation. «Modular spaces underneath the Gowind 1000's flight deckGowind 1000» DISPLACEMENT: 1,000 t» DIMENSIONS (m): 80 x» POWER: 5,900 kW» SPEED: 30 kts» RANGE: 3,500 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 44 (+ 12)» WEAPONS:4 x Exocet MM408 x VL Mica1 x 76 mm - 2 x 20 mmUAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Radars: 3DDecoy launchers© DCNS © DCNS

» Corvettes & OPVsMer et Marine22INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015CombattanteFS56/46With sales of over 90 Combattante fastattack boats to its credit, Cherbourgbasedshipbuilder CMN has revampedthe design without compromising onspeed or provisions for weapon systems.The latest Combattante boasts stateof-the-artsystems and subsystems,powerful self-defence, electronicwarfare and combat managementsystems, an enclosed mast atop apanoramic bridge, and the ability tolaunch and recover a 5.25m RHIB.The hull of the new Combattante FS56combines its ancestors’ lines withstealth performance meeting the latestclassification society criteria. Withreduced crewing thanks to advancedFS56» DIMENSIONS (M): 56 x 8.2» SPEED: 38 kts» RANGE: 2,500 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 32» WEAPONS:8 x SSM missilesShort-range SAM or 1 x 40 mm1 x 76 mm - 2 x 20 mm» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:CMAST with 2D or 3D radarautomation, the new Combattantehas all the qualities, reliability andcompetitive pricing that made itspredecessors famous.In addition to the FS56 model, whichhas been selected by a Middle Eastnavy, CMN has unveiled a new version,the Combattante FS46. Slightlyshorter than the FS56, the compactattack craft has virtually the sameequipment as its stablemate, the maindifferences being the calibre of themain gun and the number of anti-shipmissiles it can carry. The key benefitof the new version is its lower cost fora fast attack craft that is nonethelesshighly capable. «FS46» DIMENSIONS (M): 46 x 7.5» SPEED: +35 kts» RANGE: 2,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 30» WEAPONS:4 x SSM missilesShort-range SAM or 1 x 40 mm1 x 40 mm - 2 x 30 mm© CMN © CMN © CMN

» Corvettes & OPVsOPV90Since 2013, Piriou andDCNS have been partnersin the joint ventureKership, which sells a complete rangeof maritime security vessels designedto commercial shipbuilding standards.The largest ship in the range is theOPV 90. The prototype, L'Adroit, wasmade available to the French Navyunder a new type of agreement withindustry partners, and has been inoperational service since 2012. TheOPV has deployed to the Indian Oceanon anti-piracy, counter-terrorism andtrafficking interdiction operations, andconducted fisheries policing and illegalimmigration prevention missions in theMediterranean.With an at-sea endurance of threeweeks and availability of 220 daysper year, the OPV 90 is designedfor extended ocean patrol andsurveillance missions. One of thedesign’s distinguishing features is thehigh panoramic bridge and, on top ofOPV75it, the single enclosed mast housingthe radars and other sensors. ThePolaris CMS, developed by DCNS,manages the ship’s sensors, displaysthe tactical situation and providesthe communications resources toparticipate in a multinational force. Thebridge area also includes the platformmanagement consoles, the flight opsconsole and the operations area.The spacious flight deck can accommodatea 10t helicopter and thehangar is designed for a machineweighing up to 5t along with a UAV.L'Adroit was the first European vesselto deploy a UAV, specifically a SchiebelS-100 Camcopter, on operationalmissions. With accommodation for27 passengers or commandos, theOPV 90 can be equipped with R-ESMand C-ESM equipment and is ideal forspecial forces operations. The designincludes a pair of stern ramps forthe quick launch and recovery of two9m RHIBs or USVs. «OPV90» DISPLACEMENT: 1,500 t» DIMENSIONS (M): 87 x 13.6» POWER: 5,600 kW» SPEED: 21 to 24 kts» RANGE: 8,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 32 (+ 27)» WEAPONS:1 x 40 mm - 2 x 12.7mm1 helicopter + UAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Integrated mast with 2D radar© MARINE NATIONALEThe OPV 75 is one of the new offshorepatrol vessels developed by Kershipfor EEZ surveillance and protectionmissions. It is a compact version of theOPV 90 and, like its larger stablemate,is designed as a robust platform thatis easy to operate and maintain. TheOPV 75 is faster and more versatile,however, and offers an endurance oftwo weeks without replenishment.Features include a reconfigurablemission bay with space for three20-foot containers. The adjacent aftsection has a stern ramp for the rapidlaunch of a 9m RHIB. Another 7mdavit-mounted RHIB is available onthe deck. It also offers a flight deckable to accommodate a 10t helicopter,plus a small hangar for two UAVs. TheOPV 75 has a steel hull and aluminiumsuperstructure, a panoramic bridgeand a single mast. It is equippedwith the Polaris combat managementsystem. Its crew complement can bereduced to just 32, thanks to a highdegree of automation, or increasedif necessary, with accommodationfor up to 58. «OPV75» DISPLACEMENT: 1,200 t» DIMENSIONS (M): 75 x 14.3» SPEED: 25 kts» RANGE: 4,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 32 (+ 26)» WEAPONS:1 x 40 mm2 x 12.7mmUAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Integrated mast with 2D radar© KERSHIP

25Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Corvettes & OPVs «MPV 80» DISPLACEMENT: 2,200 t» DIMENSIONS (M):79.5 x 13.8» SPEED: 21 kts» RANGE: 7,700 NM at 14,5 kts© KERSHIP © KERSHIPThe MPV 80 is Kership’s response tothe need for a robust multipurposepatrol vessel able to perform a widerange of civil and military roles in acountry’s Exclusive Economic Zone.A development of the MOPV 80,unveiled by Piriou in 2012, the MPV80 can be used for anti-piracy andtrafficking interdiction, environmentalprotection and humanitarian missions.It offers an extended endurance ofthree weeks without replenishmentB2Mand an impressive logistics handlingcapability, with a large open deckand 5t, 12m crane. It also has adedicated space with capacity forsix 20-foot containers, which canbe reconfigured to accommodate avariety of modules, such as oil spillresponse or containerised hospitalinstallations. Like the OPV 90 and OPV75, the MPV 80 has a panoramic bridgewith integrated mast, and featuresthe Polaris combat managementsystem and advanced surveillanceand intelligence capabilities. Its flightdeck can deploy a 10t helicopter andmultiple UAVs, which are stored in adedicated hangar.The MPV 80 has a steel hull andaluminium superstructure and candeploy two 7m RHIBs on davits and anadditional 11m craft, such as a largesemi-rigid inflatable for special forces,or a landing craft. «» ACCOMMODATION: 50 (+ 20)» WEAPONS:1 x 40 mm - 2 x 12.7mmUAVs» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:Integrated mast (2D radar)In late 2015, the FrenchNavy will take deliveryof the first three B2Mmultimission vessels ordered fromPiriou and DCNS in December 2013.Designed to perform surveillance andprotection operations across France’svast maritime zones in the Indian andPacific Oceans and in the Caribbean,the B2M could achieve a range of upto 9,000 miles thanks to additional fueltanks and offers an at-sea enduranceof 30 days and at-sea availability of250 days per year. The ships are builtto commercial shipbuilding standardsand share many design featureswith support vessels working in theoffshore industry, which are knownfor their robustness, endurance andversatility. The B2M vessels will carryout a wide range of naval sovereigntymissions, including search & rescue,fisheries surveillance, interdictionof illegal trafficking, and preventionof illegal exploitation of deep oceanresources. They will also providelogistics support for local maritimeauthorities as well as armed forcesbased in overseas territories. Theability to launch and retrieve 9m metreÉcume RHIBs enables makes the B2Msuitable for deploying special forcesand combat dive teams, as well asprojecting military or police units andtheir hardware and munitions into atheatre of operations. The B2M vesselsoffer the impressive payload capacityrequired for this range of operations,with storage space for six 20-foot(TEU) containers, one earth mover, andtwo 4x4 vehicles. An 8m landing craft –handled via an on-board crane capableof lifting a 12t load to a height of 14m– can also be accommodated on board.In addition, the B2M can be used onhumanitarian assistance missions todeliver equipment, cargo, food andmedical supplies, or to ferry medicalteams into disaster zones. The shipsare also equipped for firefightingoperations, with an array of watercannons, pollution control missions,and offer ocean towing capabilitythanks to a 30t tow winch. «» DISPLACEMENT: 2,300 t» DIMENSIONS (M): 65 x 14» SPEED: 13 kts» RANGE: 5,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 20 (+ 20)» WEAPONS: 2 x 12.7mm

» Corvettes & OPVsMer et Marine26INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015OPV 270© OCEAAfter considerable success buildingand exporting patrol boats up to20–30m and oceanographic vesselsup to 40–60m, French shipbuilderOcea has now entered the OPV marketwith a range of vessels between 46mand 84m in length. The OPV 270, thelargest of the range, offers 45 days'endurance and is sized for extendedoffshore missions. Features includespacious living and work areas andexcellent seakeeping thanks to a pairof fin stabilisers. The design team haspaid special attention to crew comfort.This versatile OPV is optimised for alltypes of maritime security missionsas well as SAR and humanitarianoperations. Ample space is providedfor medical facilities along withaccommodation for 35 people inaddition to the crew. While the aftdeck has space for a crane pluscargo containers or mission modules,the flight deck can accommodate a10t helicopter and the hangar a 5thelo and UAVs. Two large RHIBs arealso available for special operations.Other features include a panoramic(360°) bridge and comprehensive surveillanceand communications suites.The ops room, which is separated fromthe bridge, can accommodate half adozen multifunctional consoles alongwith large screens displaying the ship'stactical situation while a command& control (C2) system manages thesensors and weapon systems.Like all Ocea designs, the OPV 270features an aluminium hull for lowmaintenance and significantly reducedfuel consumption thanks to weightsavings compared with all-steeldesigns. To overcome any potentialrisk of metal fatigue, Ocea uses heavygaugealuminium panels and its hullscarry a ten-year warranty. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 83.6 X 15.4» SPEED: 20 to 25 kts» RANGE: 8,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 50 (+ 20)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© OCEA

27Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSCorvettes & OPVs «OPV 190The OPV 190 is one of the latestadditions to Ocea's range ofoffshore patrol vessels. Like thelarger OPV 270, it features analuminium hull guaranteeing bothlow maintenance and low operatingand upkeep costs.The basic version uses conventionaldiesel propulsion with electricpropulsion as an option. The designoffers three weeks' endurance, andwith a pair of fin stabilisers, onboardliving and working conditionsare outstanding.The OPV 190 isdesigned for maritime surveillanceand EEZ patrol missions. Like theOPV 270, it is equipped for SARand firefighting missions and hastwo large davit-launched RHIBs forvessel interception and inspectionoperations.Other features includea panoramic (360°) bridge anda comprehensive sensor suiteincluding radars, electro-opticalsensors and an electronic warfaresuite. The ops room, separate fromthe bridge, houses multifunctionconsoles to control the sensors andweapon systems and the interfacewith the command & control (C2)systems. «© OCEA» DIMENSIONS (m): 58 x 9.4» SPEED: 20 to 30 kts» RANGE: 3,000 to 5,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 24 (+30)» WEAPONS: Machine gunsVigilante 700 CL 65The Vigilante 700 CL 65 is the latestOPV from Cherbourg-based shipbuilderCMN. Optimised for EEZ surveillance,the new design features a steel hulland aluminium superstructure basedon the proven lines of the shipbuilder'stype P400 patrol vessel, a type highlyregarded for its ruggedness andlongevity. The hullform offers excellentseakeeping in all conditions, includingheavy swells and high winds. The newVigilante offers more space and loadcarryingcapacity than the smallerP400 design, along with excellentendurance thanks to its significantlyreduced fuel consumption. Otherfeatures include high speed, provisionfor two davit-launched 6.5m RHIBs andan aft deck supporting both helicopter(VERTREP) and UAV operations. TheVigilante 700 CL 65 is designed for alltypes of maritime security missions aswell as SAR, intelligence gathering andoperations by special forces. The ship'smodular design can accommodatea powerful combat system includinganti-ship missiles and short-rangeanti-air weapons. The concept's selfdefenceand offensive capabilitieswill be of special interest to countriesfacing border tensions and relatedchallenges.The combat system manages allsensors and weapons and is controlledfrom the dedicated ops room. Theradar, communications and electronicwarfare antennas and the electroopticalsensor are housed in a CMNdesignedCmast enclosed mast. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 65 x 9.8» SPEED: 25 kts» RANGE: 3,500 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 49» WEAPONS:1 x 76 mm - 2 x 30 mmOption for SSM and/or SAMUAV» ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS:CMAST with 2D radar© CMN

Vigilante 400Mer et Marine28INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015CL 54» DIMENSIONS (m): 55.2 x 8» SPEED: +23 kts» RANGE: 2,000 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 30» WEAPONS:4 x SSMShort-range SAM or 1 x 40mm1 x 40 mm - 2 x 30 mmCL 52» DIMENSIONS (m): 52.5 x 9» SPEED: 21 kts» RANGE: 5,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 20 (+20)» WEAPONS:1 x 20 mm2 x 12.7 mmCMN is continuing todevelop its Vigilante 400family of vessels formaritime surveillance andEEZ protection roles. TheVigilante 400 CL 54, basedon the sea-proven FrenchP400 model and alreadysold to Brazil, Gabon andOman, was completelyrevamped in 2012. Today,CMN is launching a newversion with an aft flight deck fordeployment of a 300kg class UAV,such as the Camcopter S-100, furtherextending the vessel's surveillance,identification and tracking capabilitieswithout compromising on any of thevessel's other functions. The newversion also features two aft deckdavits for launch and recovery of5.25m RHIBs as well as extendedpayload space.Simple and robust, the Vigilante 400CL 54 has new lines, but retains theseakeeping qualities and endurancethat have earned the P400 itsreputation. The propulsion systemhas also been improved and nowoffers reduced maintenance and lowertotal cost of ownership. All theseimprovements have been introducedwithout incurring a weight penalty.The basic version is equipped withmanual or remotely operated smallcalibreguns, but the design can alsoaccommodate a 76mm turret.Another member of the Vigilante 400family is the CL 52. The first vesselof this type was delivered the FrenchDepartment of Maritime Affairsin 2004. Designed for long patrolmissions and optimised for maritimesecurity operations, it offers excellentrange capabilities and can deploy two7m RHIBs. With its modular design,the CL 52 offers ample capacity forall types of equipment payloads andpersonnel, making it suitable for anextensive range of mission profiles. «© CMN

29Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSCorvettes & OPVs «OPV 70© MER ET MARINE © RAIDCO MARINE © MICHEL FLOCH» DIMENSIONS (m): 70 x 11.3» POWER: 8,160 kW» SPEED: >22 kts» RANGE: 4,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 64 (+ 6)» WEAPONS: 1 x 76 mm - 1 x 40 mmRaidco Marine designsand sells patrolvessels built by primecontractors including Ufast andSTX France. Raidco vessels featuredeep-V double-chine hulls offeringexcellent seakeeping and comfortas attested by operators on all seas.Raidco's first OPV 70 offshore patrolvessel entered service with the RoyalMoroccan Navy (RMN) in late 2011.RMN ship Bir Anzaran was built by STXFrance's Lorient shipyard to a Raidcodesign and delivered fully outfitted,OPV 45The OPV 45 is the mostrecent addition to RaidcoMarine’s family of patrolboats. The first-of-class, Kédougou,will be delivered to the SenegaleseNavy in winter 2014/2015. Designed forboth extended EEZ patrols and littoraloperations, the vessel will be capableof performing maritime surveillanceand control operations lasting up to tendays. With its long range capabilitiesand low maintenance requirements,» DIMENSIONS (m): 45.6 x 8.4» SPEED: 20 to 30 kts» RANGE: 2,000 NM at 12 ktsexcept for the weapon system whichwas installed later in Morocco.Since entering service, the ship hasbeen used intensively for maritimesurveillance and fisheries policing. OPVBir Anzaran is designed for EEZ patrolmissions lasting up to two weeks andis equipped with a suitably tailoredweapon system. Raidco also proposesan OPV 70 variant optimised for specialforces missions. This type uses a davitsystem to deploy two 9m rigid-hullinflatable boats, the Ufast-designedUFR 9.30 being one option. «OPV 45 offers at-sea availability ofup to 2,000 hours per year. The newsteel-hulled vessel has an aluminiumsuperstructure topped by a bridgeoffering panoramic (360°) vision.With a powerful communications andsensor suite, the OPV 45 is suitable forintelligence gathering roles. The designis also optimised for interceptionmissions, with two 6.2m RHIBs thatcan be launched simultaneously via adouble stern ramp. «» ACCOMMODATION: 17 (+ 8)» WEAPONS:1 x 20 to 40 mm - 1 x 12.7 mm

» Corvettes & OPVsMer et Marine30INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015OPV 50» DIMENSIONS (M): 58.2 x 9.5» SPEED: 25 kts» RANGE: 5,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 12 (+ 16)» WEAPONS:1 x 40 mm© KERSHIP2 x 12.7mmUAVsThe OPV 50 is a new model of offshorepatrol vessel from Kership. It is designedfor law enforcement missions incoastal waters and Exclusive EconomicZones. With a robust steel hull andaluminium superstructure, the OPV 50offers extended endurance of 15 days.Its design includes a panoramic bridgeand single mast, which houses a 2Dradar, communication system and anelectro-optical surveillance system.Like all Kership offshore patrol vessels,the OPV 50 features the Polaris combatmanagement system, which controlsthe ship’s weapons and correlatesdata from its various sensors,including unmanned vehicles and otheroffboard systems. The OPV 50 is alsodesigned to operate as part of a navalforce and to share data across highperformancecommunication systemsand tactical datalinks.Two 6.7m RHIBs can be launchedquickly from two stern ramps on vesselinterception and inspection missionsand for special forces operations.The OPV 50 also has a dedicatedhangar and flight deck for deploymentof a UAV.As well as military duties, the OPV 45is designed to perform a wide rangeof public service missions, such aspollution control and humanitarianassistance. For these tasks, ithas a large open aft deck with an8t, 8m crane and space for two20-foot containers. «RDS CastorBoat- and shipbuilderSocarenam, based onFrance's Channel coast,has long enjoyed a solidreputation on its homemarket. In recent years,the company has sought moreinternational business. In July 2014,Socarenam's Boulogne-sur-Mer yarddelivered Castor, the first of two RDS(Ready Duty Ship) patrol vessels for theNaval Component of the Belgian ArmedForces. Castor will be joined by sistership Pollux in the first half of 2015.The design is based on two patrolvessels (Jacques Oudart Fourmentinand Kermorvan) delivered to the FrenchCustoms authority in 2007 and 2008.The RDS boats will be the first newvessels commissioned by the BAF since1991. The programme calls for vesselstailored to EEZ (exclusive economiczone) surveillance in busy North Seawaters and missions that include thepolicing of fisheries, merchant vesselsand cargoes, illegal trafficking andpollution as well as search & rescue.Features include a bridge offeringpanoramic (360°) vision, a Sewacocommand & control system by Thalesto manage the sensors and the 12.7-mm remotely operated machine gun.Castor and Pollux will each carry abrace of rigid-hull inflatable boats(RHIBs); one 9m in length, the other7.5m. The longer RHIB will be launchedand recovered by a davit on the aftdeck; the shorter one via the sternramp. This configuration allows bothRHIBs to be launched simultaneously.The stern being better protected, theramp can also be used in relatively highsea states.Following the Belgian order,Socarenam booked a new order fromFrench Customs for a slightly largerversion (55m) for Mediterraneanmissions assigned by EuropeanExternal Borders Agency Frontex.Delivery is scheduled for the firsthalf of 2015. Socarenam's customs/RDS/OPV concept is highly regardedfor its performance, seakeeping andavailability. «© CMB» DIMENSIONS (m): 53.5 x 9.5» PROPULSION: 5,760 kW - 22 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 12 (+ 18)» WEAPONS: 1 x 12.7 mm

Mer et Marine32INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015Ocean Eagle 43The Ocean Eagle 43 isa maritime surveillanceand intervention vesselwith a strikingly innovative design.Three units have been ordered byMozambique, with delivery scheduledfor 2015. The CMN-designed patrolboat combines speed with excellentrange capabilities. With its trimaranhull made from composite materialsinstead of aluminium, it is strongas well as lightweight, and ballisticprotection is available as an option.The trimaran design offers excellentseakeeping and stability, while theextra width provides ample spacefor a 300kg UAV, enhancing thevessel’s surveillance capability atoptimum cost.The Ocean Eagle 43 is designedfor reduced crewing, and canperform a wide variety of littoral andoffshore missions, including antipiracy,counter-terrorism, traffickinginterdiction, intelligence gathering,special operations support and search& rescue, with at-sea endurance of upto one week. In addition to weaponsoptions that include a remotecontrolled30mm cannon and machineguns for an all-round firing capability,the patrol vessel can also deploy a 9mRHIB from a ramp at the stern of thecentral hull section.The Ocean Eagle 43 is designedto carry a comprehensive array ofelectronic systems and equipment,including navigation and surveillanceradars, an electro-optical sensor, andan electronic warfare suite with aCOMINT capability. In addition, images,videos and tactical information can betransmitted to a shore station or otherships via satellite link. All the electronicequipment interfaces with the combatsystem and an integrated navigationsystem. Communication and weaponsystems as well as the sensor suiteare managed from consoles onthe bridge. OE 43 MH, an MCM version,is also available (see p. 54). «© CMN» DIMENSIONS (m): 43.6 x 15.7» PROPULSION: 8,160 kW - 22 kts» SPEED: 30 kts» RANGE: 5,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 7 (+ 8)» WEAPONS:1 x 20mm2 x 12.7mmUAVs

33Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Patrol vessels «RPB 33Raidco Marine deliveredthe first-of-class RPB33 patrol boat, Ferlo, tothe Senegalese Navy inSeptember 2013. Barelythree months later, thenew ship had a chance toprove its operational valuewhen a foreign vesselengaged in illegal fishing activitieswas boarded and escorted to port inJanuary 2014. Togo and Côte d’Ivoirehave also chosen Raidco Marine’s newpatrol boat, ordering two and threeunits respectively, all delivered in 2014.The RPB 33 is specially designed tomeet evolving mission requirementsin maritime surveillance andintervention. With a high-performancecommunications suite, identificationsystems and a 6.2m RHIB that can belaunched and recovered via a sternramp, the RPB 33 is exceptionally wellequipped for this type of vessel. Thebridge atop the superstructure offers apanoramic view for the crew to navigate,perform command and control tasks,supervise RHIB operations, maintainsituational awareness and monitorsystem performance. The RPB 33 canbe equipped with a foredeck-mountedcannon. A small-calibre high-firingrateminigun can also be installedon the boat, in addition to non-lethalweapon options such as a long-rangeacoustic device (LRAD) or a laserilluminator coupled with a stabilisedvideo camera.The all-aluminium superstructure sitsatop a hull available in either glass/resin composite or steel. The vesselssupplied to the Togolese Navy, whichare known as PHM 33 patrol boats, aresteel-hulled. «© GUILLAUME PLISSON» DIMENSIONS (m): 33.7 x 6.5» POWER: 1,600 to 2,800 kW» SPEED: 22 to 30 kts» RANGE: 1,500 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 10 (+7)» WEAPONS:1 x 20 to 30 mm1 x 12.7 mm© GUILLAUME PLISSON

» Patrol vesselsMer et Marine34INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015HSI 32In 2015, CMN will deliver thefirst three examples of its newHSI 32 high-speed interceptorto Mozambique. Built entirelyof aluminium, with a top speedin excess of 40kts, the HSI 32is lighter, fast and versatile. Aswell as the full range of missionsassigned to conventional patrolboats, the HSI 32 is designedfor time-sensitive interceptoperations, such as counterterrorismand interdiction oftrafficking and piracy.The HSI 32 offers excellentvisibility, thanks to itspanoramic bridge, and carries acomprehensive surveillance andintelligence payload, completewith radars, electro-optical» DIMENSIONS (m): 32.2 x 7» SPEED: 43 ktssystem, C-ESM and datalink. Allsensors and weapon systems,including a gun mount withall-round firing capability,are interfaced with the ship'scombat management system andintegrated navigation system.For inspectors, response teamsor special forces, a 4.8m RHIBis carried aft and launched via astern ramp. The HSI 32 can beoperated by a crew of just 12and perform patrols lasting up tothree days.In addition to its primary interceptfunction, the new interceptorcan also be used for searchand rescue missions and canaccommodate up to 64 people. «» RANGE: > 800 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 12» WEAPONS: 1 x 20 - 2 x 12.7 mm© COMPOSANTE NAVALE BELGE© CMNCPV105The CPV 105 is a new coastalpatrol vessel designed by Kershipfor a vast array of missionsby naval forces as well asgovernment agencies such asmaritime police, coastguard andcustoms authorities. The boatcan be equipped with a rangeof weapons and communicationsystems, and the bridge can bearmour plated for extra protection.In addition to the ship's sensors,its raised panoramic bridge offersexcellent all-round visibility formonitoring the operationalsituation as it evolves. Designedto operate in territorial watersand exclusive economic zones,the CPV 105 features a sternramp for the rapid launch andrecovery of a 6.8m RHIB. Thisallows inspectors or responseteams to conduct a wide rangeof operations, including lawenforcement, inspection ofmerchant vessels, fisheriespolicing and interdiction of illegaltrafficking and piracy.With impressive endurance evenat top speed (5h at 31kts), theCPV 105 is fast, robust and costeffective.Its optimised hull designand propulsion system offerexcellent manoeuvrability andfuel efficiency.» DIMENSIONS (m): 32.5 x 6.4» RANGE: > 1,500 NM at 15 kts» POWER: 2,700 kW» SPEED: 31 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 17» WEAPONS: 12.7 to 20 mm© KERSHIP

35Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Corvettes & OPVs «FPB 98 FPB 72© OCEAThe Ocea FPB98 is a 32m fastpatrol boat with an aluminiumhull and waterjet propulsion.With 21 units delivered toAlgeria between 2008 and2011, the FPB98 has hadconsiderable success. Benintook delivery of three unitsin 2012 and in 2013, Nigeriaand Surinam received oneeach. More recently, Oceahas booked additional orders» DIMENSIONS (m): 32 x 6.3 x 1.1» POWER: nc» SPEED: 35 ktsto fill six build slots in 2015.Excellent feedback from earlycustomers has contributeddirectly to strong sales.The FPB98 is designed formaritime surveillance andpatrol missions to the outerboundaries of a country'sEEZ. The design is renownedfor its seakeeping qualitiesand its endurance of upto seven days. «» RANGE: 1,000 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 12 (+ 14)» WEAPONS: 1 x 30 ou 1 x 20 mmThe Ocea FPB72 isdesigned for littoralsurveillance and protection,and more specificallyfor missionsbetween 12 and 24nmoff shore. With two propellers anda top speed of 34kts, the FPB72 isa fast, multi-purpose boat. Like allOcea boats, it features an aluminiumhull ensuring low purchase andmaintenance costs. This 24m fastpatrol boat can carry a 4m RHIB and12.7 or 7.62mm machine guns. ThreeFPB72s were delivered to Nigeria in2012 and two to Surinam in 2013.Ocea booked orders for four more inIn 2014 also is expecting additionalsales to international customers. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 24 x 5.8 x 1» SPEED: 35 kts» RANGE: 600 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 8 (+ 11)» WEAPONS: Machine gunsPlascoa 2200Couach has completed the constructionof two Plascoa 2200 fast patrol boatsordered by Yemen, which has alreadytaken delivery of four Plascoa 1500s.Based on a sea-proven hull designalready in service with the Frenchcustoms authority, the Plascoa 2200is dependable and robust, making itsuitable for blue-water operations,despite its small size. Under the Yemencontract, it has also been optimised fordeployments in harsh climates includingtemperatures over 35°C and humidity inexcess of 80%. With its fast top speedand light weaponry, the Plascoa 2200is designed for interception missions,littoral surveillance and protection ofkey assets. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 24 x 5.8 x 1» POWER: nc» SPEED: 35 kts» RANGE: 600 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 8 (+ 11)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© COUACH

» Patrol vesselsMer et Marine36INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015© KERSHIPRPB 20The RPB 20 patrol boats soldby Raidco Marine have beena major market success, withorders for more than 60 vesselsbooked over the last fewyears.Following the sale of 24 unitsto French customers, othercustomers include Gabon(4), Guinea (3), Mauritania(2), Morocco (11), Nigeria (4),Senegal (4), South Africa (2) andTunisia (4). The latest additionto the list is Libya, which tookdelivery of two RPB 20s in 2013.The design features a doublechinedeep-V hull offering excellentseakeeping and comfort inaddition to high pursuit speeds.The GRP hull includes a sternramp for the launch and recoveryof a 5m RHIB carrying inspectorsor a response force. «The CPV 82 was specially developedby Kership as a compact version of theCPV 105 for coastal patrol duties. Itspanoramic flybridge offers the crewan direct, unobstructed view of theoutside environment to complementits advanced day/night electro-opticalsensors. Fast and with impressiveendurance, the CPV 82 is designed forall types of maritime security missionsincluding interception. It has a sternramp for the rapid launch and recoveryof a 4.9m RHIB carrying inspectors orspecial forces. Designed to commercialstandards and classified by BureauVeritas, the CPV 82 is a robust,low-maintenance platform with analuminium hull. «CPV 82» DIMENSIONS (m): 25 x 5.9» POWER: 2,060 kW» SPEED: 30 kts» RANGE: 1,200 NM at 12 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 10» WEAPONS: 12.7 to 20 mm» DIMENSIONS (M): 20 x 5.29 x 1.49» POWER: 1,470 kW» SPEED: 28 to 35 kts» RANGE: 500 NM at 15 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 5 (+ 3)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© RAIDCO MARINERaidco Marine’s RPB 12coastal surveillancevessel is available inpilot or rescue craft versions. Aroundfifteen units have been sold to France,Belgium, Mauritania and Senegal. Themost recent customer is Côte d’Ivoire,which took delivery of four vessels in2014. With a double-chine deep-V hullmade from a glass-resin complex, theRPB 12 is ideal for surveillance andinterception missions in littoral watersand harbour approaches. Equippedwith a waterjet or propeller (V-drive)propulsion system, it can reach a topspeed of 35kts, and is also availablein an unsinkable self-righting versionmeeting SOLAS standards. «RPB 12» DIMENSIONS (m): 11.65 x 3.75» POWER: 460 to 700 kW» SPEED: 27 to 35 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 2 (+ 4)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© RAIDCO MARINESafesea 12Sibiril Technologies presents theSafesea 12 patrol boat. Developedby the Brittany-based shipbuilder inassociation with Pierre Delion NavalArchitects, the Safesea 12 is anefficient, simple, and robust patrolboat with outstanding seakeepingperformance. Unsinkable and selfrighting,the Safesea 12 builds on» DIMENSIONS (m): 11.8 x 3.65» POWER: 520 kW» SPEED: 30 ktsSibiril’s long-standing experiencebuilding heavy-duty professionaland public service boats for rolesincluding piloting, firefighting, crewtransport and SAR. In 2015, theshipyard will be delivering the firstin-classof a new generation of 18mpatrol vessels ordered by the Frenchlifeboat association SNSM. «» ACCOMMODATION: 8» WEAPONS:Machine GunUAVs© SIBIRIL TECHNOLOGIES

» Corvettes & OPVsMer et Marine38INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015Hornet/1300 FICSince a fleet of 15 vesselswas delivered to the IndianNavy in 2011 and 2012,Couach’s 1300 FIC fast interventioncraft has attracted a lot of attention andgenerated strong interest from a numberof naval forces. The boats supplied toIndia are designed to perform intensivesurveillance and protection missions inIndian waters, particularly around majorports like Mumbai, where they play a keyrole in protecting the naval base, the vastharbour area, and the port facilities.Powered by two 800-HP MAN R6-800diesels, giving them a top speed inexcess of 50kts, the interceptors, fromCouach’s Plascoa range, offer excellentmanoeuvrability and seakeeping thanksto a deep-V hull made from a Kevlar,fibreglass and carbon fibre compositematerial. These tough boats also featurebulletproof glazing and an armourprotectedsuperstructure made fromTwaron aramid fibre. An automatic12.7mm machine gun can be mounted onthe bow, and two 7.62mm cannons on thestern. Couach also offers a slightly largermodel, 15m in length, equipped with a» DIMENSIONS (m): 13 x 3.8 x 0.9» POWER: 1,176 kW» SPEED: > 50 ktssemi-rigid inflatable and a 20mm remotelyoperated machine gun.The Plascoa range of interceptors,designed for protection of maritimeapproaches and strategic assets, is alsoavailable in an “open” version, with noclosed wheelhouse. Initially developed asa superyacht, the first vessel of this type,the Hornet, is also proving a great hit withmilitary customers. A number of foreigndelegations have already tested the newboat. Couach reports that they were veryimpressed by the feeling of safety andstability during simulated high-speedpursuit manoeuvres under rough seaconditions, and all agreed that attackerswould find it difficult to escape the Hornetonce they had been spotted.Built using the same hull materials andengines as the 1300 FIC, with Rollapropellers and Arneson articulated surfacedrive systems, the Hornet is optimised forspeed and designed to take interceptioncapabilities to a whole new level. Slightlylighter than the 1300 FIC, it boasts a topspeed of 52kts, and can be armed with12.7mm and 7.62mm machine guns. «» RANGE: nc» ACCOMMODATION: 5» WEAPONS: 1 x 12.7 mm - 2 x 7.62 mm© COUACH © COUACH

39Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWS Interceptors «DV15The DV15 from CMN hasbecome an industry standard,with more than45 boats sold to date.Mozambique took deliveryof six of the vessels in2014, joining the UnitedArab Emirates, Qatarand Yemen in the list ofcustomers for this successful maritimesecurity vessel. With a deep-V hullmade of composite materials, theship can be deployed as part of awhole range of air/sea surveillanceand protection operations. The DV15is designed primarily for interceptionmissions, area protection and criticalport and offshore infrastructuresecurity. It is also used for combatingtrafficking, piracy and terrorism andfor police, sovereignty and escortmissions. Thanks to its modulardesign, features can be tailored to thecustomer’s precise needs. Optionsinclude a 12.7mm remotely operatedgun, electro-optical sensors and agunshot detection system. Building onthe success of the DV15, CMN unveiledits new DV15 RWS 30 interceptor forthe first time in 2012. This featuresa 30mm remotely operated guninstead of the 12.7mm manual guncarried by earlier versions. The Lemurgyrostabilised turret from BAE SystemsBofors is equipped with a sensorpackage including day/night camerasand a laser rangefinder, target trackingmodules and ballistic protection. Theturret carries a belt-fed ATK M230LFgun with a firing rate of 200 rounds/minute and a 300-round belt. Meetingthe structural, outfitting, stability andsafety requirements associated witha gun turret mounted on the roof ofa boat less than 16m in length was atour de force, but the effort has paidoff. CMN reports that the new versionoffers the same high levels of stabilityand performance as the basic DV15,which has demonstrated excellentfiring precision in tests at morethan 50kts. «© CMN» DIMENSIONS (m): 15.5 x 3» POWER: 865 kW» SPEED: > 50 kts» RANGE: 350 NM at 40 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 3/4© CMN» WEAPONS:1 x 30 mm - 1 x 12.7 mmOCEA RANGEFrench boatbuilder Ocea has revampedits range of interceptorsfor maritime safety & security, thesurveillance of sensitive sites andspecial operations. The redesignedC-Falcon is 16m long, while theC-Heron has grown to 23m and theC-Sword to 26m. Featuring hydrojetpropulsion, these high-speed, highlymanoeuvrable craft can quicklyintercept terrorists or pirates ordeploy commandos in record time.Options include a roof-top autocannonand even a lightweight SAMsystem. A flotilla of Ocea interceptorscoordinated by a lead boat is idealfor protecting offshore platformsand high-value naval assets. «» DIMENSIONS (m): 20.9 x 5.20 x 1» POWER: nc» SPEED: 50-55 kts» RANGE: 500 NM at 25 kts» ACCOMMODATION: 6 (+ 16)» WEAPONS: Machine guns© OCEA

Mer et Marine40INTERNATIONAL SHOWS » 2014-2015Sillinger1200 RafaleSillinger, a subsidirary of the Frenchgroup Marck, has launched its newRafale range of RHIBs targeted inparticular at special forces units,with six models measuring between9.5 and 16m. Some of these, like the12m Rafale 1200, are existing modelsthat have already been selected bycustomers. Others are new, such asthe flagship Rafale 950 model. This9.5m RHIB is available with a rangeof propulsion configurations, includinginboard and outboard engines, Z-Driveand surface-piercing propellers. Fittedwith twin 350hp waterjets, the Rafale950 prototype offers a speed of 42ktswhen loaded. Although slightly less fastthan other propulsion types, waterjetsoffer several advantages, includingbetter manoeuvrability and saferoperation in shallow waters, thanks tothe absence of propeller blades.Like the other models in the range, theRafale 950 features a deep V-shapedwave-piercing bow for safety andstability in rough sea conditions.The hull is constructed of compositematerials (fibreglass, isophtalic resinand vinylester) for greater resilience inthe marine environment.Rafale RHIBs are multifunctionplatforms with hardened fittings foruse in extreme and hostile conditions.They are built around a modulardesign and feature an aluminiumdeck track system, which providesattachments for extra seats, storagelockers and mounts for weaponry and/or electronic systems (radar, optronics,communications, etc.). These RHIBsare structurally robust by design,and can also be fitted with fixed orremovable Spectra ballistic protectionpanels for vulnerable parts such as thecollar and engines.Alongside the Rafale RHIBs, the ProRaid range comprises foldable boatswith hull lengths of less than 9.5m.Sillinger also produces its SRD rapiddeployment boats for commandos,with hull lengths between 4.25m and5.25m.Sillinger works mainly for military andsecurity forces, but also supplies boatsfor other categories of professionalusers. It produces 250 to 300 boatsper year at its plant in Mer, centralFrance, and has customers in 45countries around the world. «© COUACH950 Rafale

41Mer et Marine2014-2015 « INTERNATIONAL SHOWSRHIBs «Zodiac MilproZodiac Milpro is the world leaderin rigid-hull inflatable boats forprofessional and military use. Itscurrent range is available in hull sizesfrom 4.10 to 11.52 metres. The latestaddition to the range is the ECUME,delivered to French commando forces.Based on the ZH-930 model, also soldto other forces, the ECUME is availablein sizes from 9 to 11 metres. It isdesigned for long-range raids (200nmat 40 kts) in the harshest conditionsand can carry up to 16 commandoswith full equipment.Available with outboard and inboardpropulsion options and with a topspeed in excess of 50kts, the ZH-930and other models such as the ZH-935feature the MACH II stepped hull. Thishull type, developed and patentedby Zodiac Milpro, offers exceptionalmanoeuvrability and stability. TheZH-930 is available with aluminiumor fibreglass hull and conventional,D-shape or hybrid collar options.The hybrid collar is another ZodiacMilpro innovation, which combinesconventional and D-shape profiles tosignificantly increase payload area. TheZH-930 is a hardened, multifunctionRHIB with a modular deck space. Itis air-droppable and suitable for awide range of roles, from deployablecommand post to sea-launched attack,troop deployment and maritime escort.With its reconfigurable deck tracksystem, it can accommodate all typesof equipment, sensors and weaponry.Options are also available to increasetotal payload capacity.In addition to the Zodiac Hurricanerange, the company offers a widevariety of RHIBs for military forces,coastguards and governmentagencies. In service around the world,these models are renowned for theirdependability and durability and canbe provided on a turnkey basis to meetspecific customer requirements. Morethan 20,000 units are operational in 80countries with armed forces customersalone.Many special forces units use theFutura Commando range, availablein hull sizes from 4.2 to 5.3 metres.Foldable and reinflatable for easytransportation and covert operations(sinking on infiltration, then reinflationon exfiltration), these boats haveremovable lower buoyancy tubesinstalled underneath the main collarsto increase payload capacity andimprove rigidity and seakeeping.Usability is another priority forZodiac Milpro. The company worksclosely with operational personnel tooptimise its products and provide allthe accessories they need: stowagesolutions, removable fuel bladders,rapid inflation kits, Milpro AIR(acceleration and impact reduction)suspended seats, etc. The Frenchgroup also offers complete trainingprogrammes to help customersto operate and maintain its iconicproducts. «© MARINE NATIONALE