French DGA Launches Third Force Supply Ship

The "logistics fleet" (Flotlog) program reached a major milestone in April 2026 with the launching of the force supply vessel (BRF), Émile Bertin with a view to delivery to the French Navy in 2027.

The BRF ships which were ordered in 2019 from a consortium (GME) composed of Chantiers de l'Atlantique and Naval Group.

The Flotlog program is managed by the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and is the subject of cooperation with Italy through the LSS ( Logistic Support Ship ) program of the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), which provides project management on behalf of both nations.

The force supply ships (BRF) are intended to replace the single-hull command and supply ships (BCR) of the French Navy, taking into account the anti-pollution standards in force (regulations "double hull" for the transport of petroleum products) and the evolution of the operational context.

They provide support and resupply missions for all ships of the French Navy and their allies (fuel, ammunition, spare parts, food). They can also embark a staff as well as a Caïman Marine or Dauphin helicopter.

Their cargo and fuel carrying capacities are ten times greater than those of the previous generation of vessels. The same is true for their tactical capabilities, with self-defense systems and a combat system enabling them to deploy autonomously to operational areas and counter asymmetric threats, both surface and air.

he BRFs are notably equipped with the Rapidfire S40SA self-protection weapon systems from the Thales-KNDS consortium and the Simbad RC missile launcher system, which uses MBDA's Mistral missiles.

Essential to the strategic autonomy of the French Navy, these supply ships give France the ability to conduct operations on the high seas and to deploy far and for long periods.