The French Navy’s multi-role escort frigate Provence has docked at Lotus Port (District 7, Ho Chi Minh City) from February 28 to March 7 as part of an official visit to Vietnam.

The warship, measuring 142 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and weighing 6,000 tons, is equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry and defense systems.

During the visit, French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet and Captain Lionel Siegfried, commander of the Provence, spoke with the media about the ship’s mission and France’s defense collaboration with Vietnam.

Ambassador Brochet emphasized that the visit aims to enhance bilateral defense and security cooperation, key pillars of the Vietnam-France Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Additionally, it underscores France’s commitment to Indo-Pacific security, particularly in a time of growing global uncertainty.

Commissioned in 2015, the Provence is among the most modern escort frigates in the French Navy. It is designed for anti-air, anti-submarine, and surface warfare, with cutting-edge radar, sonar, and missile defense systems.

The Provence is equipped with an advanced air defense cannon, missile launchers, and electronic warfare systems to detect and neutralize threats from multiple directions.

This multi-role frigate is capable of executing a wide range of naval missions, including security operations, submarine hunting, surface combat, and air defense. It is fitted with high-tech radar and sonar systems for intelligence gathering and threat detection.

A helicopter landing pad is integrated into the Provence’s deck, allowing for search and rescue missions, medical evacuations, and reconnaissance operations.

The Provence’s state-of-the-art navigation system includes a modern compass, radar, and advanced electronic sensors capable of tracking aircraft and surface vessels over long distances.

The Provence can travel at 16 knots (30 km/h) in stealth mode and accelerate up to 27 knots (50 km/h) when needed.

The command center is equipped with high-tech monitoring and control systems, enabling the crew to manage all tactical operations with precision.

One of the ship’s most advanced features is its autonomous tracking and defense system, which allows it to analyze threats and protect itself without external assistance. It also features a 3D radar system capable of detecting aircraft and surface vessels over great distances.

In addition to its military role, the Provence represents France’s strategic maritime presence in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing its commitment to regional security and defense cooperation.

Nguyen Hue