France begins transfer of Rubis nuclear attack submarine

France has begun the transfer of the Rubis (S639), its fifth Suffren-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, to the launch lift at Naval Group’s shipyard in Cherbourg. The vessel is moving toward the hydraulic launch system in the Cachin basin to undergo final completion work, dockside testing, and sea trials.

Part of the Barracuda programme, the Rubis is designed to replace the aging Rubis-class submarines that have been in service since the 1980s. The new class offers enhanced speed, endurance, and stealth through features such as pump-jet propulsion and an X-shaped rudder configuration. These submarines are capable of intelligence gathering, fleet protection, and striking land targets with naval cruise missiles.

The French Navy has already received four boats in this programme: Suffren, Duguay-Trouin, Tourville, and De Grasse. The sixth and final submarine, Casabianca, is currently under construction with an expected delivery by 2030. While an official delivery date for the Rubis has not been announced, sea trials are anticipated to follow the completion of onboard system integration.