According to information published by Opex360 on October 16, 2024, the French Navy has announced plans to convert two La Fayette-class frigates into high-seas patrol vessels, addressing an operational gap as older ships are phased out.
Currently, the Navy operates below its targeted number of frontline vessels, with only eight FREMM frigates (including two with enhanced air defense capabilities), two air defense frigates, and three upgraded La Fayette-class frigates. Full capacity will only be reached once five new Defense and Intervention Frigates (FDIs) are delivered.
Budget constraints limited the modernization of the entire La Fayette fleet. While the Navy initially planned to upgrade all five vessels with advanced systems like the Kingklip Mk2 sonar, only three were ultimately renovated.
The fate of the two non-upgraded frigates, Surcouf and Guépratte, was uncertain, with discussions about selling them at one point. However, the Navy decided to retain them for use as high-seas patrol ships due to delays in the BATSIMAR program, which aims to replace the aging d’Estienne d’Orves-class patrol boats. These vessels, initially meant to be decommissioned decades ago, have been in service well beyond their intended lifespan.