In a significant move to enhance the capabilities of France’s naval fleet, CNN MCO, Thales, and CS GROUP have joined forces to modernize the navigation systems on the country’s three Mistral-class amphibious helicopter carriers: Mistral, Tonnerre, and Dixmude. The collaboration will also extend support to the replenishment and reconnaissance ship Somme, ensuring a comprehensive upgrade across key vessels.
The modernization initiative is set to commence according to the fleet’s maintenance schedule, with installations planned for the Dixmude and Tonnerre. The full rollout of the upgraded navigation system is expected by 2027, marking a pivotal advancement in the operational readiness of the French Navy’s amphibious vessels.
One of the primary objectives of this project is to safeguard the performance of the Navy’s ships in electronic warfare scenarios, where reliance on GPS for navigation can be severely compromised. Florent Chauvancy, Vice President of Flight Avionics at Thales, emphasized the importance of these resilient navigation solutions, stating, “We’re proud to play a part in providing resilient navigation solutions for France’s naval vessels as a prerequisite for ensuring freedom of action by armed forces at sea.”
As part of the partnership, Thales will introduce the TopAxyz inertial navigation system, which calculates a ship’s position, speed, and heading using only onboard measurements. This system harnesses internal sensors, including gyroscopes and accelerometers, to continuously monitor the vessel’s movement, functioning independently of external signals like GPS.
CS GROUP will take charge of integrating the TopAxyz units into the overall navigation system of each vessel. Their responsibilities will encompass the management of sensors, data distribution, embedded systems, and crucial cybersecurity protections to ensure the safety and functionality of the navigation systems.
Meanwhile, CNN MCO will focus on the installation of these advanced systems on board, conducting rigorous testing, maintenance, and ongoing support throughout the operational lifespan of the ships.
The Mistral-class amphibious helicopter carrier is designed for versatility and strength. Measuring 199 meters (653 feet) in length and 32 meters (105 feet) in beam, these vessels displace 21,500 tons and have a top speed of 19 knots (35 kilometers/22 miles per hour). Each ship is crewed by 177 sailors and has the capacity to accommodate up to 900 embarked troops. Additionally, the carriers can house 16 helicopters and transport 60 armored vehicles or 13 tanks. They also feature a 69-bed hospital, emphasizing their capability for humanitarian missions and disaster relief.
The partnership between CNN MCO, Thales, and CS GROUP marks a crucial step forward in bolstering the navigational capabilities of the French Navy, ensuring that its forces remain agile and effective in a complex and evolving maritime landscape.
