France's Aging Rubis-Class Submarines Embark on New NATO Missions
The French Navy's Rubis-class submarines, despite their age, are set to play a crucial role in upcoming NATO operations.
- France's Rubis-class submarines, built in the 1980s, continue to be pivotal in military operations, now preparing to escort the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.
- These submarines, which can operate for months without refueling, are part of a strategic shift as they join NATO forces under direct command for the first time.
- The aging fleet is undergoing a transition, with the newer, more advanced Suffren-class submarines gradually replacing them.
- Commander Manuel Bienvenu highlighted the flexibility of these submarines to adapt to rapidly changing international situations.
- The French Navy's commitment to modernizing its fleet is evident as it retires older submarines and introduces more capable ones by 2030.