This upgrade may indicate France's growing concern about naval air defence in high-intensity combat scenarios. The increased Aster missile capacity suggests a focus on enhancing the FDI frigates' ability to protect naval forces, which could strengthen France's position in NATO naval operations.
Naval Group And MBDA Upgrade Aster Missile Capacity
France has finalised an order with Naval Group and MBDA to increase the Aster air defence missile capacity of its FDI frigates. The upgrade will double the capacity from 16 to 32 missiles per ship, enhancing the ships’ ability to protect naval forces in high-intensity combat. The French Navy has already taken delivery of the first FDI frigate, Amiral Ronarc’h, in October 2025. The upgrade was reported by Defence Industry Europe.
This upgrade may indicate France's growing concern about naval air defence in high-intensity combat scenarios. The increased Aster missile capacity suggests a focus on enhancing the FDI frigates' ability to protect naval forces, which could strengthen France's position in NATO naval operations.
Naval Group And MBDA Upgrade Aster Missile Capacity
France has finalised an order with Naval Group and MBDA to increase the Aster air defence missile capacity of its FDI frigates. The upgrade will double the capacity from 16 to 32 missiles per ship, enhancing the ships’ ability to protect naval forces in high-intensity combat. The French Navy has already taken delivery of the first FDI frigate, Amiral Ronarc’h, in October 2025. The upgrade was reported by Defence Industry Europe.