The nuclear submarine De Grasse, the fourth unit of the French Navy’s Barracuda class, has begun its first sea trials, known as “Alpha Trials,” departing from the Naval Group shipyard in Cherbourg.
The vessel is part of the program aimed at modernizing France’s submarine force with quieter, more versatile, and heavily armed attack submarines.
Named in honor of Admiral François Joseph Paul, an 18th-century naval hero, De Grasse incorporates improvements over the first three units of the class, according to the command of the French submarine forces. Among the upgrades are an updated version of the SYCOBS combat management system and a new electronic warfare system, enhancing operational capability in highly complex scenarios.
The program has already placed the submarines Suffren, Duguay-Trouin, and Tourville into service, while Rubis and Casabianca remain under construction, with deliveries scheduled through the end of the decade. The new SSNs are gradually replacing older units and represent a technological leap for France in submarine operations.
With a submerged displacement of 5,100 tons, speeds exceeding 25 knots, and an endurance of up to 70 days, the Barracuda-class submarines can deploy naval cruise missiles, F21 torpedoes, and SM39 anti-ship missiles. They are also equipped with advanced sensors, high-definition optronic masts, and facilities for the discreet deployment of special forces, reinforcing France’s strategic superiority in the undersea domain.
Source: Naval News | Photo: X @MarineNationale | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
#SNA | Le 24 février, le SNA De Grasse, 4ème de la classe Suffren, a effectué sa première sortie à la mer depuis Cherbourg➡️Début des essais en mer, vérification des capacités techniques et opérationnelles par la DGA et Naval Group en vue d’une livraison à la Marine en 2026.🌊 pic.twitter.com/VDKeacrWLD
— Marine nationale (@MarineNationale) February 25, 2026
