France Plans New Lithium-Ion Batteries for Submarines
France will equip Barracuda and export Scorpene submarines with lithium-ion batteries supplied by Saft, aiming to improve underwater endurance and efficiency.
France is preparing to equip its naval submarines with lithium-ion batteries, with a supply contract already awarded to domestic manufacturer Saft, the company’s press service announced.
The new power systems are intended for both Scorpene-class diesel-electric submarines built by France for export and Barracuda-class nuclear-powered boats. Details of the program and the timetable for switching to the new batteries have not yet been disclosed.
Saft, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies and a major global producer of battery technologies, will supply the units.
Lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density than conventional alternatives. For diesel-electric submarines, this means they can remain submerged for longer periods without surfacing.
The French Navy currently operates four Barracuda-class nuclear submarines: Suffren, Duguay-Trouin, Tourville and De Grasse. Two more vessels of the same class are at different stages of construction.
France does not operate diesel-electric submarines in its own fleet. Scorpene-class boats are produced exclusively for foreign customers and are currently in service with Brazil, Chile, India and Malaysia.
The lithium-ion batteries are expected to be installed primarily on newly built submarines. However, replacing the batteries on vessels already delivered to customers also remains a possibility.