LES FRÉGATES DE DÉFENSE AÉRIENNE FORBIN & CHEVALIER PAUL

Conceived at the end of the Cold War to counter the threat of anti-ship missiles and ensure air superiority, the Forbin and Chevalier Paul air defense frigates (FDA) have been the French Navy's most powerful combat vessels for the past twenty years.
Designed as part of a Franco-Italian program whose success deserves to be highlighted, these ships, built for high-intensity combat, combine ultra-high-performance systems with remarkable technical redundancy. Their crews, possessing unparalleled technical skill and professionalism, embody the fighting spirit required for the most demanding naval air operations.
Since entering service in 2010, the FDAs have been deployed to all major theaters of operation, from the Libyan coast to the shores of the Red Sea, including the Persian Gulf and the Syrian Channel. They have established themselves as the benchmark escort for strategic naval units, notably the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, whose close protection they provide. Their versatility has also allowed them to excel in intelligence gathering, air control, and area defense missions.

Yet, their history remains largely unknown. This book aims to fill this gap by paying tribute to all the sailors who have served and continue to serve aboard these exceptional frigates.

This book comprises 232 pages and more than 450 photographs.

Royalties are donated to the ENTRAIDE MARINE association: https://www.entraidemarine.org/