Cassard-class

The Cassard class, designated Type F70 AA, consisted of two anti-air warfare destroyers operated by the French Navy. Developed as an air-defense variant of the Georges Leygues class, the design utilized an identical hull but featured different propulsion and armament systems. The class was intended to replace T 47-class vessels. While four ships were originally authorized, the program was reduced to two units after the United States terminated production of the Standard SM-1MR missile. Construction took place at Arsenal de Lorient between 1982 and 1991. Experience from the program informed the design of the later La Fayette class.

The vessels featured a superstructure constructed from fire-resistant aluminum alloy. The design utilized diesel propulsion rather than the turbines found in the Georges Leygues class to prevent hot exhaust gases from interfering with radar arrays. The SEMT Pielstick engines used double super-charging and flexible mountings to reduce the ship's noise signature. For air defense, the class employed Mk 13 launchers and tracker-illuminators refurbished from retired T 47 destroyers. Additional armament included anti-ship missiles, torpedo tubes, a dual-purpose gun, and close-in weapon systems. The ships operated a single helicopter, transitioning from the Eurocopter AS 565 Panther to the Westland Lynx, supported by a specialized handling system and an aft hangar. Electronic suites included air search radars, a combat data system, and satellite communications.

The primary role of the Cassard class was providing air cover for naval groups, convoys, and littoral points. Secondary functions included air asset coordination and aircraft control via Link 16, as well as identification and presence missions. Both vessels, Cassard and Jean Bart, were assigned to the Force d'Action Navale. Cassard entered service in 1988 and was retired in 2019. Jean Bart entered service in 1991 and remained active until 2021. The class was decommissioned in conjunction with the introduction of the air-defense variants of the Aquitaine class.