The French Ministry of Defense has notified the request for the purchase of components destined for the next-generation aircraft carrier (PANG) of the National Navy, focusing on the ship’s nuclear propulsion systems. The order placed on April 26th through the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) has a cost of 600 million euros, which was communicated to the companies Naval Group and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, as well as TechnicAtome, who were awarded the contract.
Official communication indicates that Naval Group will first be responsible for the industrialization and production of the main components of the nuclear reactors. Chantiers de l’Atlantique will be responsible for adapting its industrial tools for the construction phase in Saint-Nazaire. Finally, TechnicAtome, the main contractor for the nuclear reactors, will be responsible for their design and industrial monitoring of their production.
These companies focusing on the ship’s propulsion systems will also consider the reactors, containment shells, and steam power conversion. This is part of a study started in 2018, which continued with preliminary designs in 2021 and finally detailed preliminary designs initiated in 2023. Additionally, it was announced that the construction of the next-generation aircraft carrier is scheduled to begin between late 2025 and early 2026. This will replace the Charles de Gaulle, whose retirement from active service is planned for that date.
While, as announced, the PANG program will follow a historical line for the development of the next generation of French aircraft carriers, it will take into account relevant issues associated with the geostrategic context and defense perspectives established for the year 2040.
Likewise, another aspect to consider in the design of the new flagship is compatibility with other weapon systems within the Navy, as well as with the systems of allied nations, ranging from armaments to communication and intelligence systems. It is also important to consider the adaptation of ports that can accommodate the new next-generation French aircraft carrier.
According to documents shared in local media arising from parliament, the designs and plans currently being worked on introduce an aircraft carrier of about 300 meters in length with a displacement of around 70,000 tons (compared to the Charles de Gaulle, which is 261 meters long and has a displacement of around 42,000 tons).
Similarly, based on this preliminary design, the PANG program would be incorporating an aircraft carrier with greater capabilities than those of the United Kingdom, with a displacement of 65,000 tons, but smaller compared to the Americans, who have a displacement capacity of 100,000 tons. It was also revealed that work is being done on an aircraft carrier with an angled flight deck and equipped with 90-meter catapults and arrestor cables. The catapults on the Charles de Gaulle are 75 meters long.
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