The Barracuda-class attack submarine is used to replace the Ruby-class attack submarine. The design of this class of boats largely adopts the technology of the French Triumph-class strategic nuclear submarine and can be equipped with cruise missiles to achieve long-distance and deep strikes.
The missions performed include anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare, ground attack, intelligence gathering, crisis management and special operations. The Barracuda class adopts an advanced hydrodynamic design.
Its hull combines two designs of whale shape and a water drop shape. The aspect ratio is the same as that of the Virginia class, which is 11:1.
The total length is about 97 meters, and the hull diameter is 8.8 meters. The podium shell is centered near the hull’s bow, and the overall structure is simple. The X-shaped tail rudder is used at the stern to improve underwater control.
The hull of the Barracuda class is made of the same NLES-100 special steel as the Triumph class, with a maximum submersible depth of over 350 meters. Its compression resistance is comparable to that of the Virginia class in the United States, better than that of the Ruby class, and its concealment has been significantly enhanced.
The development of nuclear submarines in France was late, and the development method was different from that of other countries. It first developed strategic nuclear submarines related to its adherence to an independent national defense policy and the urgent need for nuclear deterrents. On December 1, 1971, its first strategic nuclear submarine, “Formidable,” entered service.
It was not until 1976 that France began to build its first-class Ruby-class attack nuclear submarine. With the end of the Cold War, local crises and limited regional conflicts became the new focus, and the strategic focus of the French Navy gradually shifted from the traditional struggle for sea dominance to extremely precise “surgical” strikes onshore and inland targets.
The latest “Barracuda-class” attack nuclear submarine has a full-load displacement of 5,300 tons. Although it is much larger than the previous generation, the Rubis-class attack nuclear submarine is still very small compared with other countries. Why does France make nuclear submarines so small? The key is France’s proximity to the Mediterranean.
A nuclear submarine that is too large makes it inconvenient to operate. France built the Barracuda-class attack nuclear submarine in 13 years. It can be said that it integrates many advanced weapons of France. The submarine is equipped with the “Storm Shadow” cruise missile, which is a stealth cruise missile. Some indicators even surpassed the Tomahawk cruise missile.
The submarine is also equipped with a small submarine, which can carry a 15-man squad to perform secret missions in the strike and reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. As a member of NATO, France has its own independent military research and development system, which is rare in Europe.
