$1.3 Billion System for Next-Generation Aircraft Carrier
On 21 December the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of State Department approval for the potential Foreign Military Sale of an Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), and related equipment to France.
He French government has requested an EMALS in two-launcher configuration and an AAG system in three-engine configuration, plus: land-based testing and test spares; shipboard install; testing and certification support; shipboard spares; peculiar support equipment; government-furnished equipment; multi-purpose reconfigurable training system; operator and maintainer training; integrated electronic technical manuals; drawings and interface control documents; technical assistance; contractor engineering technical services; and other related elements of logistical and program support, at an estimated total cost of $1.321 billion (€1.17 billion).
The proposed systems are for integration into France’s PANG next-generation aircraft carrier, likely a 70,000t nuclear-powered vessel tentatively scheduled to enter service around 2038, when the Charles de Gaulle will be 40 years old. Prime contractors will be General Atomics-Electromagnetic Systems Group (GA-EMS), San Diego, CA, and Huntington Ingalls Industries, Newport News, VA.
