The French Navy has successfully completed test-firing of the Aster 30 surface-to-air missile on Chevalier Paul, an air defence frigate.

The missile successfully matched friendly and opponent aircraft, and then engaged the opponent jet, confirming the outer limits of the field of discrimination.

Chevalier Paul and its Cayman Marine helicopter can be deployed to escort carrier battle groups, also called the Arromanches mission.

"The Chevalier Paul air defence frigate is the preferred escort for aircraft carriers."

Integrating a range of complex technologies and advanced military capabilities, the Chevalier Paul air defence frigate is the preferred escort for aircraft carriers, including France’s Charles de Gaulle and a range of US vessels.

During deployment, the frigate assumes all protection missions, ranging from escort to expanded control of air and sea space.

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Commissioned in June 2011, the Horizon-class frigate was constructed as part of the Franco-Italian naval horizon programme to replace the Suffren and Duquesne missile frigates.

It can also be used for high-intensity missions and interventions in crisis areas.