La Fayette class Frigate

The La Fayette class units (FL-3000 for "Frégate Légère de 3,000 tonnes", "3,000-tonnes light frigates") are light multi-mission frigates built by DCN and operated by France (Marine Nationale). Derivative of the type are in service in Saudi Arabia, Singapore (Republic of Singapore Navy) and Republic of China (Taiwan) (Republic of China Navy). These frigates were referred to as "stealth" frigates. Their reduced radar cross section is achieved by a very clean superstructure compared to conventional designs, angled sides and radar absorbent material, a composite material of wood and glass fiber as hard as steel, light, and resistant to fire.

Most modern fighting ships built around the world since the introduction of the La Fayette have followed the same principles of stealth. All information gathered by the on board sensors is managed by the Information Processing System, the electronic brain of the operation center of the ship. It is completed by an electronic command aid system. The La Fayette has space available for the future installation of the Aster 15 missile, the state-of-the-art anti-air European weapon, and currently carries the Crotale short-range defense system, and Exocet missile, mounted in two quad launchers.

The ships are designed to accommodate a 10 tonne helicopter in the Panther or NH90 range (though they are also capable of operating the Super Frelon and similar heavy helicopters). These helicopters can carry anti-ship AM39 or AS15 missiles, and can be launched during sea state 5 or 6 due to the Samahé helicopter handling system.

Appearances

 * Ace Combat 04: Shattered Skies
 * Ace Combat X: Skies of Deception

Operators

 * Federal Erusean Navy
 * Leasath Navy