La Fayette

Description: The La Fayette-class frigates were designed with innovative stealth features with reduced radar cross section and infrared signatures. The modular design of these ships permits them to be configured as anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air warfare (AAW), and Multi-role frigates. The ships can be armed with surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, advanced sensors and one helicopter.

La Fayette-class frigates have been ordered by France, Taiwan and Saudi Arabia.

The frigates ordered by the French have been configured as multi-role frigates. They feature MM40 Exocet anti-ship missiles, Crotale air defense system employing the VT-1 missile with 8 missiles ready to fire and 18 in storage, a 100mm gun, and a NH90 or AS565 ASW helicopter. Jamming and decoy capabilities have also been provided to these ships. It may be possible to upgrade French Navy's La Fayette-class frigates with the SAAM air defense system, but it has not been confirmed yet.