“Unveiling the Future: Naval Group Launches the De Grasse, the Fourth Barracuda-Class Nuclear Submarine”
On 27 May 2025, the fourth Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine (SSN) departed from its construction hall to be transferred to the DME floating platform-type shiplift. The De Grasse is part of a series consisting of six Suffren-class SSNs designed to gradually succeed the Rubis-class submarines of the French Navy.
The De Grasse represents the fourth vessel of the Barracuda initiative. Its unveiling marks a significant advancement in the program’s progression, paving the way for the commencement of its sea trials in 2026. Before that, finishing touches and preliminary evaluations will be
conducted at the quay.
“The unveiling of the De Grasse signifies a crucial milestone for the Barracuda initiative,” affirmed Pierre Éric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group. “I wish to commend the commitment and expertise of the teams at Naval Group, alongside TechnicAtome, the DGA, the CEA, the French Navy, and all our partners. Achieving this milestone is a reflection of the skill and professionalism of the French naval industry, proudly supporting our armed forces.”
An initiative of distinction that leverages the expertise of the French defense industrial and technological sector
Guided by the French defense procurement authority (Direction générale de l’armement – DGA), in collaboration with the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) responsible for the nuclear steam supply system, the Barracuda initiative is aimed at replacing the Ruby-type nuclear attack submarines launched in the early 1980s. The plan encompasses the delivery of 6 submarines by 2030.
The Barracuda initiative harnesses the capabilities of all Naval Group facilities, as well as those of TechnicAtome and various partner enterprises.
Naval Group oversees the creation of this series of six submarines, encompassing everything from design to ship construction, the fabrication of critical components for the nuclear steam supply system developed in conjunction with TechnicAtome, as well as logistical support and maintenance of the vessels in Toulon.
The Barracuda-class submarines furnish the French Navy with robust deep strike capabilities, facilitated by MBDA’s naval cruise missiles (NCM). They are also armed with the F21 heavyweight torpedo manufactured by Naval Group and the SM39 anti-ship missile from MBDA. These SSNs enable the covert deployment of Special Forces underwater, notably facilitated by its “divers hatch” and the optional accommodation of a dry deck shelter for deploying underwater vehicles.
This significant technological advancement and enhancement of capabilities stem from over twenty years of collaborative effort between Naval Group and numerous partners within the defense industrial and technological sector.
A total of 2,500 individuals (including approximately 800 from Naval Group subcontractors) are engaged in the design and production of the Barracuda submarines.
Technical specifications of the Barracuda SSNs
- Surface displacement: 4,700 tons
- Diving displacement: 5,200 tons
- Length: 99 meters
- Diameter: 8.8 meters
- Armament: naval cruise missiles, F21 heavyweight wire-guided torpedoes, modernized
Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles - Hybrid propulsion: pressurized water reactor derived from the reactors equipped on the Triomphant-type SSBN and Charles-de-Gaulle aircraft carrier, one propulsion turbine, two turbo generators, and two electric motors;
- Crew: 63 crew members + commandos
- Availability: > 270 days per annum
