Story perspectives

French Navy Doubles Aster Capacity for Future Frigates

11/5/2025

48 5

Summary

Story summary

French National Assembly confirmed plans to double Aster capacity on Defence and Intervention Frigates (FDI) to 32 cells to address a capability gap.
The upgrade was announced during budget discussions for the 2026 Finance Bill.
The first three FDI vessels will be retrofitted to the 32-cell configuration.
The French Navy aims to operate five FDI frigates to strengthen layered air defense for future operations.
The first ship was delivered in October 2025.

1 of 1

Story summary

French National Assembly confirmed plans to double Aster capacity on Defence and Intervention Frigates (FDI) to 32 cells to address a capability gap.
The upgrade was announced during budget discussions for the 2026 Finance Bill.
The first three FDI vessels will be retrofitted to the 32-cell configuration.
The French Navy aims to operate five FDI frigates to strengthen layered air defense for future operations.
The first ship was delivered in October 2025.