09.10.2009
DCNS company signed procurement contract of three additional multipurpose FREMM-type frigates for French Navy. That was said by the shipbuilder on Oct 8, informs Defense News. Company's communique says that signing of an agreement was announced by Herve Morin, French Minister of Defense.
Two new ships are to be produced in air defense modification, third – in antisubmarine one, says the source. In addition, the contract provides installation of improved air space, undersea and land surface monitoring sensors on all frigates. The document specifies delivery terms of the vessels: they will be handed over each 10 months since 2012 till 2022.
Defense News reminds that at program's initial stage French MoD planned to purchase 17 frigates at the price of 388.5 mln euro each or 8.51 bln euro for the series. However, due to financial reasons government had finally to reduce order to 11 ships. Nevertheless, even considering that
DCNS positioned
FREMM program (Fregate Europeen MultiMission) as Europe's largest in its class.
Regard must be paid to the fact that
FREMM-type frigates are built for France and Italy which are their largest customers. One ship was ordered by Morocco; Greece plans to buy six frigates. Bulgaria may become the fourth customer.
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