With its blend of stealth, firepower, and endurance, the Amiral Ronarc’h not only strengthens the French Navy but also influences global naval design trends.
The Amiral Ronarc’h stands as a beacon of France’s commitment to naval innovation, serving as the lead ship in the Defence and Intervention Frigate (FDI) class. Also known as the Belharra-class in export variants, this advanced vessel represents a significant leap in French Navy capabilities, blending cutting-edge technology with versatile operational roles.
Launched amid evolving global security challenges, the Amiral Ronarc’h FDI frigate is designed for defense, intervention, and multi-domain warfare, ensuring France maintains a robust maritime presence. As the French Navy transitions from older frigates like the La Fayette-class, the FDI program underscores strategic priorities in anti-submarine, anti-air, and anti-ship operations.
The History of France’s FDI Frigate Program
The origins of the FDI frigate trace back to France’s 2013 White Paper on Defense and National Security, which called for a fleet of fifteen first-rank frigates optimized for crisis interventions.
Officially launched in 2015 as the Frégate de Taille Intermédiaire (FTI), the program evolved into the FDI designation, emphasizing defense and rapid response. In April 2017, Naval Group (formerly DCNS) secured a €3.5 billion contract to build five vessels, with the lead ship named after Admiral Pierre Alexis Ronarc’h, a hero of World War I.
Construction of the Amiral Ronarc’h began in 2019, with the keel laid on December 17, 2021, at Naval Group’s Lorient shipyard. The ship was launched on November 7, 2022, marking a milestone in French naval engineering. The program not only bolsters domestic capabilities but also targets exports; Greece ordered three FDI HN variants in 2021, with options for more, highlighting the class’s international appeal.
By accelerating production for subsequent ships, France aims to have all five FDIs operational by 2035, gradually phasing out aging assets.
The Amiral Ronarc’h’s Specs
- Year Introduced: Not yet introduced (projected 2026)
- Number Built: 1 (planned 8-9)
- Length: 122 m (400 ft 3 in)
- Beam (Width): 17.7 m (58 ft 1 in)
- Displacement: 4,400 tonnes (4,500 t)
- Engines: Two diesel engines (43,000 shp); one shaft
- Top Speed: 27 knots (31 mph, 50 km/h)
- Range: 5,000 nmi (5,800 mi, 9,300 km)
- Armaments: One Oto Melara 76mm Super Rapid gun; two 20mm remote-controlled weapons systems (RWS); eight Exocet MM40 Block 3 SSM missiles; two Sylvester A50 8-cell vertical launch system (VLS); two twin torpedo tubes
- Crew: 110 (plus 15-man helicopter detachment)
At the heart of the Amiral Ronarc’h’s prowess is its compact yet powerful design. Displacing 4,500 tons, the frigate measures 122 meters in length and 18 meters in beam, achieving a top speed of 27 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at 15 knots. With an endurance of 45 days and a crew complement of 125 (plus 28 passengers), it prioritizes efficiency and sustainability in extended missions.
The FDI frigate incorporates digital tools for enhanced stealth and modularity. Its propulsion system, while not fully detailed publicly, supports versatile operations in high-threat environments. Advanced features include a reduced radar cross-section and integrated systems for seamless data sharing, making it a digital-native warship. The Amiral Ronarc’h can accommodate one helicopter, facilitating aerial reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare.
The Amiral Ronarc’h is armed to dominate multi-threat scenarios.
Its primary weaponry includes a 76 mm main gun, two 20 mm remote-controlled guns, and 16-cell Sylver A50 vertical launch systems for Aster 15/30 surface-to-air missiles. Anti-ship capabilities feature eight Exocet MM40 Block 3 missiles, while dual torpedo launchers deploy MU90 torpedoes against submarines.
Electronic warfare is bolstered by the SENTINEL R-ESM system and CANTO anti-torpedo decoys. Sensors form the frigate’s eyes and ears. The Thales SEA FIRE 4D AESA radar provides multi-function air and surface surveillance, complemented by KingKlip Mk2 hull-mounted sonar and CAPTAS-4 towed array for underwater threats.
The Setis 3.0 combat management system integrates these elements, enabling real-time decision-making. This suite positions the FDI as a force multiplier in joint operations, from coastal defense to blue-water expeditions.
The Frigate’s Strategic Role and Current Status in the French Navy
In the French Navy’s fleet, the Amiral Ronarc’h enhances power projection, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean theaters. It supports NATO missions, humanitarian interventions, and sovereignty enforcement, addressing asymmetric threats like piracy and hybrid warfare. As the lead FDI frigate, it sets benchmarks for future vessels, with the class expected to comprise Amiral Louzeau, Amiral Castex, and others.
As of 2025, the Amiral Ronarc’h has progressed significantly. Sea trials commenced on October 7, 2024, under challenging conditions, followed by further tests in December 2024. Commissioning is anticipated in 2026, paving the way for operational deployment. This timeline aligns with France’s ambition to modernize its navy amid geopolitical tensions.
The Amiral Ronarc’h embodies France’s forward-thinking approach to maritime security, merging tradition with technological supremacy in the FDI frigate class. As global navies adapt to new challenges, this vessel’s versatility and advanced features ensure France remains a key player in international waters.
With its blend of stealth, firepower, and endurance, the Amiral Ronarc’h not only strengthens the French Navy but also influences global naval design trends, securing a safer maritime domain for decades to come.
About the Author: Brandon J. Weichert
Brandon J. Weichert is a senior national security editor at The National Interest. Recently, Weichert became the host of The National Security Hour on America Outloud News and iHeartRadio, where he discusses national security policy every Wednesday at 8pm Eastern. He is also a contributor at Popular Mechanics and has consulted regularly with various government institutions and private organizations on geopolitical issues. Weichert’s writings have appeared in multiple publications, including The Washington Times, National Review, The American Spectator, MSN, The Asia Times, and others. His books include Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His newest book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine is available for purchase wherever books are sold. He can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.
Image: Shutterstock / Wojciech Wrzesien.
