French Navy Orders 16 Heavy-Duty Tugboats from Piriou

French shipbuilder Piriou has secured a contract from France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) for 16 new-generation RP30NG tugboats to support French Navy port operations. The work includes maneuvers involving nuclear submarines and major surface combatants. Beyond towing, the vessels will provide firefighting, pollution response, maritime surveillance, fisheries inspection, and assistance missions. Built from Piriou’s civilian tugboat range and adapted for military needs, the boats are designed for operations up to 200 nautical miles offshore for several days. Each RP30NG measures 26 meters long with a 9.2-meter beam, 370 tonnes full-load displacement, and 30-tonne bollard pull. They will use two ~1,100 kW engines, two aft azimuth thrusters, and can reach 11 knots, with accommodations for a crew of six. The order builds on earlier RP30/RPC30 tug deliveries and Piriou’s harbor-tug experience.