EDEX 2023: Defence and intervention FDI frigate by Naval Group.

During the EDEX 2023 defense expo, Naval Group, the French maritime defense company, showcased its FDI frigate, known in the international arena as the Belharra class.

Model of the Defence and intervention FDI frigate on Naval Group's booth. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The FDI frigate measures 122 meters in length and 17.7 meters in beam. Propelled by a Combined Diesel and Diesel (CODAD) arrangement, the frigate generates a total output of 32,000 kW (43,000 shp).

This power allows it to reach a maximum speed of 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph), with a range of 5,000 nautical miles (9,300 km; 5,800 mi) at a speed of 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph). Designed for extended missions, its endurance is up to 45 days, and it accommodates a complement of 110 crew members, excluding an air crew detachment of approximately 15.

In terms of sensors and processing systems, the FDI frigate is equipped with the Thales Sea Fire multi-function Active electronically scanned array radar in the S-band, Kingklip Mark 1115 hull sonar, and CAPTAS-4 towed sonar. For decoys, it employs the SYLENA Mk1 decoy launching systems, particularly for CANTO anti-torpedo decoys in the Greek vessels.

The frigate's armament includes an Oto Melara 76 mm Super Rapid gun, mounted in a stealth cupola, and 2 × Nexter Narwhal 20 mm Remote Weapon Systems on French vessels, with Leonardo LIONFISH 20mm on Greek vessels.

For anti-ship combat, it carries 8 × Exocet MM-40 Block 3c missiles. The anti-air arsenal varies between the French and Greek models, with the former equipped with 2 × Sylver A50 8-cell Vertical Launching Systems for 16 MBDA Aster 15/30 surface-to-air missiles, while the latter has 4 × Sylver A50 8-cell VLS for 32 MBDA Aster 15/30 missiles and 1 × Mk31 21-cell launcher of RAM Block 2B surface-to-air missiles. The frigate is also equipped for anti-submarine warfare with 2 × dual torpedo tubes for EuroTorp MU90 Impact torpedoes.

The FDI frigate can carry 1 NH90 or Guépard Marine (H160M) helicopter, equipped for various roles including torpedoes, air-to-surface missiles, and heavy machine guns. The French vessels also feature an SDAM UAV, while Greek service includes the MH-60R Seahawk and Schiebel Camcopter S-100.