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Naval Group Pushes Frigate Sales as Europe Boosts Defence Budgets
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Naval Group Targets European Frigate Market Amid Rising Defence Spending
In a statement released on October 8, state-controlled French warship builder Naval Group said it is intensifying efforts to capture a larger share of Europe’s expanding defence budgets. The company is preparing a bid for Denmark’s high-profile frigate contract while already supplying vessels to the Netherlands, Belgium, Greece and Sweden. Executives argue that the ability to deliver ships quickly gives them a competitive edge over rivals such as Britain’s BAE Systems and Germany’s TKMS.
Background: Growing Naval Investment and Competitive Landscape
European governments have accelerated defence spending in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and heightened tensions in the Middle East. This surge has prompted a scramble for modern naval platforms, with several national programmes experiencing delays or cancellations—Germany scrapped a flagship frigate project in June, and Belgium’s programme with Dutch shipbuilder Damen has stalled. Naval Group’s strategy emphasizes rapid delivery and proven designs to meet these urgent needs.
Data & Statistics
- Annual turnover: €4.7 billion (? $5.3 billion).
- European client share: 20 %–25 % of turnover, up from zero in 2019.
- Production capacity: The Lorient shipyard can build two Defence and Intervention Frigates per year, aiming for a delivery cycle of under four years and eventually three ships annually.
- Current contracts: Three Greek frigates are at various construction stages; a first frigate was delivered to Greece in 2023. Steel cutting has begun on the first of four Swedish frigates ordered in August, and two vessels are under construction for the French navy.
Official Statements & Responses
Jean-Marie Dorbon, director of Naval Group’s frigate programme, stressed that the company’s advantage lies in an existing production line that enables on-time deliveries. The firm also noted collaborations with local suppliers—Salamis Shipyards in Greece and Saab in Sweden—to meet national content requirements.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The main advantage our ship has is that it already exists, that there's a production line up and running, and that we are delivering them on time,” — Jean-Marie Dorbon, director of Naval's frigate programme — Jean-Marie Dorbon, director of Naval’s frigate programme
*The article reflects information from recent Reuters reporting and statements released by Naval Group representatives.*