France continues to advance its underwater fleet renewal program. The nuclear-powered attack submarine "De Grasse" has embarked on its first sea trials. This submarine belongs to the Suffren class and is part of the Barracuda program, aimed at replacing the aging Rubis-class submarines to enhance the French Navy's stealth combat capabilities.
On February 24, 2026, the "De Grasse" departed from the port of Cherbourg to begin testing under operational conditions, including its combat system, propulsion plant, and nuclear reactor performance. Previously, in December 2025, the submarine's reactor was started up, laying the groundwork for deployment. As the fourth Suffren-class submarine, it was launched in May 2025 and, following harbor acceptance tests, has now entered the sea trials phase.
The French defense procurement agency has ordered six nuclear-powered attack submarines under the Barracuda program. The first three are already in service, with the remaining two under construction and scheduled for delivery before 2030. Naval Group leads the design and construction of the submarines, collaborating with TechnicAtome on the reactor components. Naval Group stated: "Designed to meet current and future operational needs, the Barracuda-class nuclear-powered attack submarines are more versatile, higher performing, and better armed than their predecessors."
The Barracuda program is designed with a service life exceeding 30 years and is expected to support the French submarine force until 2060. Each submarine has a surface displacement of approximately 4,700 tons and a submerged displacement of about 5,100 tons. It is 99 meters long, with a speed exceeding 25 knots and an endurance of up to 70 days. Its armament includes F21 torpedoes, Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles, and naval cruise missiles, with potential future integration of unmanned systems.
Technical upgrades encompass non-penetrating optronic masts and removable dry deck shelters to support special operations. These nuclear-powered attack submarines will solidify France's underwater advantage for decades to come, enhancing stealth and endurance to meet the demands of modern naval warfare.
