Space left for a SAAM launcher forward of the bridge which will replace Crotale in the second three of the class on build and the first three at refit. This might mean putting the Arabel fire-control radar on top of a more solid looking foremast once Crotale is removed. Superstructure inclines at 10 to the vertical to reduce radar echoing area. The radar echoing area is claimed to be 60 per cent less than for a traditional design. Radar absorbent paint is used extensively.
Sensitive areas are armour-plated.
SLAT anti-torpedo system may be fitted when available. Magazine for AM 39 Exocet and AS 15 for the NFH-90 helicopter. Plans to fit sonar have been dropped but in the future an ASW version of the ship could be built with hull and towed array sonars, lightweight torpedo launchers, and an ASW configured helicopter. Surcouf planned for May 1994 and Courbet in 1996. These frigates are designed for out of area operations on overseas stations and the first three are assigned to the Indian Ocean.