Frigate
FREMM multipurpose frigate
The FREMM is a multi-mission frigate made by Naval Group and Fincantieri in France and Italy, in service since 2012. It displaces about 6,000 t, and its design was the basis for the US Navy’s Constellation class.
France|Naval Group & FincantieriWhat Is the FREMM multipurpose frigate? Overview, History and Development
The Frégate Européenne Multi-Mission programme, run via OCCAR by Naval Group and Fincantieri, launched its first ship, Aquitaine, in 2010, with service from 2012. Displacement is about 6,000 t, length 142 m, beam 19.7 m, speed about 27 knots and range about 6,000 nm at 15 knots. France ordered 8, including 6 anti-submarine ships and 2 Alsace-class air defence ships with 32 cells. Italy ordered 10 Bergamini-class ships, 6 general-purpose and 4 anti-submarine.
French ASW ships carry 16 vertical cells for Aster 15/30, Exocet MM40 Block 3, MU90 torpedoes and an NH90 helicopter. Exports include Morocco (2014), Egypt and Indonesia. The US Constellation class (FFG-62), ordered in 2020 and built in Wisconsin, was based on FREMM, and the programme was reportedly cancelled in 2025. French frigates, including Provence, shot down drones and missiles from Yemen in the Red Sea in 2023–2024. Cost is about 400–600 million euros per ship. Rivals include the Type 26, FDI Belharra and F126.
FREMM multipurpose frigate Specifications: Displacement, Speed, Armament and Crew
FREMM multipurpose frigate Variants and Versions Compared
The French ships, including anti-submarine and air defence versions, in service since 2012.
The Italian ships, built as general-purpose and anti-submarine frigates of the Bergamini class.
An upgraded Italian version, with the US Constellation class derived from the FREMM design.
Which Countries Use the FREMM multipurpose frigate? Operators and Users
France
Italy
Morocco
Egypt
Indonesia
United StatesFREMM multipurpose frigate FAQ: Price, Range, Operators and Most Asked Questions
How much does a FREMM frigate cost?
A FREMM frigate costs about 400 to 600 million euros per ship, according to hedged estimates. Prices vary by version, equipment and customer.
Which countries use FREMM frigates?
FREMM frigates are used by France, Italy, Morocco, Egypt and Indonesia, and the US Constellation class is based on the design. Morocco ordered in 2014, and Egypt operates French- and Italian-built ships.
How many FREMM frigates does France have?
France ordered 8 FREMM frigates: 6 anti-submarine Aquitaine-class ships and 2 Alsace-class air defence ships. Italy ordered 10 of its Bergamini class.
FREMM vs Type 26: which is better?
The FREMM is smaller than the Type 26, at about 6,000 t against 8,000 t, but it is in service, while the Type 26 is still entering service. The Type 26 carries 48 Sea Ceptor and 24 Mk 41 cells and specialises in anti-submarine warfare.
What is the Constellation-class frigate?
The Constellation-class (FFG-62) is a US Navy frigate based on the FREMM design, built by Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Wisconsin. The programme was ordered in 2020 and reportedly cancelled in 2025 after delays.
Did FREMM frigates fight in the Red Sea?
French FREMM frigates, including Provence, shot down drones and missiles from Yemen in the Red Sea in 2023–2024. Alsace and Lorraine also took part in the escort mission.