French Nuclear Submarine Makes Historic Stop in Halifax
- paolo bibat
- Mar 16
- 2 min read
The FS Tourville, a cutting-edge Suffren-class nuclear attack submarine of the French Navy, docked in Halifax, Nova Scotia, earlier this week during its first transatlantic deployment.
The visit marks a significant milestone for the vessel, which is undergoing trials to test its capabilities in cold-water conditions.
Captain Laurent Falhun, commanding officer of the Tourville, emphasized the importance of the mission: “We are very proud and happy to be here in Halifax. It’s the first time for this type of submarine. The aim of the mission is to proceed to trials in order to check if the submarine is OK to proceed to future operations.”
Thierry Petit from Naval Group, the company behind the submarine's construction, added that operational feedback from these tests would not only benefit France but could also be shared with Canada as it seeks to modernize its submarine fleet.
The timing of the Tourville’s arrival coincides with Canada’s ambitious plans to replace its aging Victoria-class submarines.
The Canadian Department of National Defence has initiated the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), aiming to acquire up to 12 modern conventionally-powered submarines by 2035. The Naval Group, which built the Tourville, is vying for this lucrative contract.
Measuring 99 meters in length and equipped with advanced weaponry, including cruise missiles and torpedoes, the Tourville represents state-of-the-art submarine technology.
Its ability to operate in icy waters aligns with Canada’s strategic needs in the Arctic and other challenging environments.
Petit highlighted Canada’s unique requirements: “You’ve got three oceans—the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic—and responsibilities within NATO. Submarines must operate along the Canadian coast and elsewhere in challenging seas like the Northwest Passage.”
Local residents were intrigued by the submarine’s presence in Halifax Harbour. Social media buzzed with speculation about its purpose, ranging from routine testing to geopolitics.
While some joked about unfounded connections to recent annexation remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, others viewed the visit as a demonstration of French naval prowess and a potential signal of defense collaboration between France and Canada.
The FS Tourville will remain docked in Halifax until March 21 before continuing its trials in northern waters. Its visit underscores growing international interest in Arctic navigation and resource exploration while highlighting Canada’s efforts to strengthen its maritime defense capabilities.
