Fr��gate La Fayette

The building of the frigate ���La Fayette��� began on 15th December 1990 and she entered into service on 15th December 1995, being the first of a series of five ships named, ���F710 La Fayette���, ���F711 Surcouf���, ���F712 Courbet���, ���F713 Aconit��� and ���F714 Gu��pratte���. Designed chiefly to preserve and protect the interests of the State regarding distant maritime areas and to solve crises occurring outside Europe, these front line war ships ���also liable to become part of any sea forces��� have gradually joined the Force d���Action Navale (French Naval Forces). They may also have to insure the support of rapid deployment forces or the protection of commercial traffic, as well as carry out specific operations or humanitarian missions.