According to information published by the French MFA on June 23, 2023, the French Navy's FREMM DA frigate Lorraine arrived in Manila, Philippines, for a port call.
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French FREMM DA frigate Lorraine. (Picture source: French MFA)
The visit of the French warship is intended to contribute to regional security and comes in response to China's continued aggression in the South China Sea and incursions into the West Philippine Sea.
The port call of the Lorraine coincides with the official visit of Rear Admiral Geoffroy d'Andigné, the joint commander of the French Armed Forces in the Asia-Pacific Zone, who arrived in Manila on June 26.
During his visit, Admiral d'Andigné will meet with Philippine military and diplomatic officials as part of Manila's efforts to expand its military ties with Western countries.
About the frigate
The Aquitaine-class frigate Lorraine is an impressive vessel with a displacement of over 6,000 tons. It stretches to a length of 466 feet (142.0 meters) and has a beam of 65 feet (19.8 meters).
The Lorraine is powered by MTU Series 4000 engines, generating 2.2 MW of power. Its propulsion system is based on CODLOG (Combined Diesel Electric or Gas), allowing for efficient and flexible operation.
The frigate can achieve a speed of 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph), with a maximum cruise speed of 15.6 knots (28.9 km/h; 18.0 mph). This enables the vessel to swiftly maneuver through the waters, ensuring its readiness for diverse missions.
In terms of range, the Lorraine has an impressive capability, capable of covering 6,000 nautical miles (11,000 km; 6,900 mi) at a speed of 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph). This extensive range allows for extended missions without the need for frequent refueling.
The crew complement of the Lorraine is over 145 personnel. This skilled and experienced team operates the ship's sophisticated sensors, processing systems, and weaponry.
Among its sensor systems, the frigate is equipped with the Héraklès multi-purpose passive electronically scanned array radar, Thales STIR EO MK 2 fire control radar, CAPTAS-4 towed-array sonar, and UMS 4110 CL hull-mounted sonar. These advanced systems enhance the ship's surveillance and detection capabilities.
Regarding armament, the Lorraine is equipped with a range of powerful weaponry. It features a 76 mm Super Rapid gun and three 20 mm Narwhal remote weapon systems for close-in defense.
The frigate also carries a 32-cell SYLVER A50 VLS (Vertical Launch System) capable of launching Aster 15 and Aster 30 air defense missiles. Additionally, it is armed with eight Exocet MM40 Block 3 anti-ship missiles (with the Block 3c variant entering service with the French Navy from December 2022) and two B-515 twin launchers for MU90 torpedoes.
