Mistral-class

The Mistral class originated from a 1997 study for a multi-purpose intervention ship intended to replace the Foudre and Ouragan classes. This development aligned with the National Concept for Amphibious Operations, which prioritized air projection and force deployment. Though initially envisioned as a collaborative European project, the program became a national French concern following the failure of contract negotiations between participating nations. The first two vessels were commissioned between 2006 and 2007, with a third added to the French fleet in 2012.

The class features a continuous flight deck with two elevators and a hangar capable of supporting diverse helicopter types and unmanned aerial systems. For amphibious transport, the design incorporates a vehicle hangar and a well deck that accommodates landing craft or hovercraft. Each vessel serves as a command and control platform through an integrated tactical information system and a dedicated command center. Onboard medical facilities include a NATO Role 3 hospital equipped for surgery, radiology, and intensive care. Propulsion is provided by electric azimuth thrusters, which allow for increased maneuverability and expanded internal volume for crew accommodation.

The French Navy operates three ships of the class: Mistral, Tonnerre, and Dixmude. These vessels are certified for the NATO Response Force and have participated in several international engagements. Mistral performed refugee evacuations during the 2006 Lebanon War, and Tonnerre supported peacekeeping efforts in Côte d'Ivoire. The class has also been used for humanitarian aid delivery in Southeast Asia and counter-narcotics operations in the Gulf of Guinea. In 2011, the vessels deployed attack helicopters during operations off the Libyan coast.

In 2011, Russia contracted for two modified vessels. Following the 2014 Russia-Ukraine crisis, the French government suspended delivery and eventually canceled the contract. France subsequently sold these two ships to the Egyptian Navy. Renamed Gamal Abdel Nasser and Anwar El Sadat, they entered Egyptian service in 2016.