5 Facts About French Aircraft Carrier Pa2

The French aircraft carrier, PA2, is a planned naval vessel that has been making waves in the defense community. As a key component of the French Navy's modernization efforts, the PA2 is designed to be a cutting-edge aircraft carrier that will play a crucial role in the country's defense strategy. Here are five interesting facts about the PA2:

Design and Construction

The PA2 is being designed and constructed by the French defense contractor, DCNS (now known as Naval Group). The project was officially launched in 2001, and the vessel is expected to be commissioned into service in the late 2020s. The PA2 will be built at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, which has a long history of constructing aircraft carriers for the French Navy.

Technical Specifications

The PA2 will be a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Charles de Gaulle, in terms of size, capabilities, and technological advancements. Here are some key technical specifications of the PA2:

Length: 283 meters (930 feet)
Beam: 75 meters (246 feet)
Displacement: 75,000 tons
Propulsion: Nuclear-powered
Speed: Over 27 knots (50 km/h)
Crew: Approximately 2,000 personnel

Capabilities and Armament

The PA2 will be equipped with a range of advanced sensors, communication systems, and armament. Some of the key capabilities and armament of the PA2 include:

Aircraft: The PA2 will be able to carry a maximum of 40 aircraft, including the Rafale M fighter jet, the E-2C Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft, and the NH90 helicopter.
Radar systems: The PA2 will be equipped with advanced radar systems, including the Thales Sea Fire 500 radar, which provides 3D air and surface surveillance.
Electronic warfare: The PA2 will have advanced electronic warfare capabilities, including jamming and decoy systems.
Missiles: The PA2 will be equipped with a range of missiles, including the Aster 30 surface-to-air missile and the Exocet AM39 anti-ship missile.

Stealth Technology

One of the key features of the PA2 is its stealth technology. The vessel is designed to have a reduced radar cross-section, which makes it harder to detect. The PA2's stealth technology includes a range of design features, such as:

Radar-absorbing materials
Angled surfaces
Reduced vertical surfaces

Crew and Accommodations

The PA2 will have a crew of approximately 2,000 personnel, including sailors, airmen, and Marines. The vessel will have a range of accommodations, including:

Mess halls
Galley
Medical facilities
Gymnasium
Living quarters

The PA2 will also have advanced communication systems, including satellite communication and internet access.

Training and Operations

The PA2 will undergo extensive training and testing before it is commissioned into service. The vessel will be crewed by experienced personnel who have undergone rigorous training. The PA2 will also have a range of operational capabilities, including:

Power projection
Amphibious operations
Air defense
Anti-submarine warfare

Gallery of PA2 Images

PA2 Image Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PA2 aircraft carrier?

The PA2 is a planned French aircraft carrier that is currently under construction. It is designed to be a cutting-edge aircraft carrier that will play a crucial role in the French Navy's defense strategy.

When will the PA2 be commissioned into service?

The PA2 is expected to be commissioned into service in the late 2020s.

What are the technical specifications of the PA2?

The PA2 will have a length of 283 meters, a beam of 75 meters, and a displacement of 75,000 tons. It will be powered by a nuclear reactor and will have a top speed of over 27 knots.

We hope you found this article informative and engaging. The PA2 aircraft carrier is an exciting project that showcases the French Navy's commitment to innovation and defense. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.