Warship construction – what Poland can learn from the French ocean patrol vessel program?

Shipbuilding for the navyis one of the most demanding industrial processes, combining advanced engineering, modern technologies, and close cooperation among many entities. Contemporary maritime projects are increasingly realized in a model based on the collaboration of private and state shipyards, allowing for more efficient use of the competencies of the domestic industry. An excellent example of this approach is the program for new ocean patrol vessels PO-PH being implemented in France.

Recently, the French shipbuilding industry achieved another important milestone. The first unit from the new series of ocean patrol vessels was launched at the Piriou shipyard, confirming the effectiveness of the adopted cooperation model and the high competencies of the French companies involved in the project.

Launch of the first ocean patrol vessel PO-PH

On February 5, 2026, the launch of the prototype ship of the series – PH1 "Trolley de Prévaux" took place at the Piriou shipyard in Concarneau. This is an extremely significant moment for the entire program, as the first unit serves as a reference point for the construction of subsequent ships and the verification of the applied design and technological solutions.

Next-generation ocean patrol vessels are designed to address contemporary challenges related to the protection of France's maritime interests. Vessels of this type are intended, among other things, for conducting patrols in vast waters, protecting the exclusive economic zone, supporting rescue operations, and carrying out missions related to maritime security.

The launch of the first unit marks the completion of one of the most important stages of the process, which is shipbuilding. From this moment, the phase of equipping, integrating systems, and conducting shipyard and sea trials begins, which will confirm the unit's compliance with the design assumptions.

The French model of cooperation in shipbuilding

The organization of the PO-PH program deserves special attention. It is implemented by a consortium of several companies with various specializations and competencies.

The construction of the first patrol vessel is the responsibility of the Piriou shipyard, while the second unit of the series – PH2 "d'Estiennes d'Orves" – is being built at the CMN (Construction Mécanique de Normandie) shipyard in Cherbourg. The assembly of this vessel began in February 2025, and its launch is planned for early 2027.

Naval Group also plays a key role in the project, responsible for the ship's architecture and the Setis combat system design. At the same time, the consortium of private shipyards CMN, Piriou, and Socarenam carries out the essential part of the process referred to as "civilian" construction, which includes hull construction, assembly of main equipment components, and preparation of the ship platform.

This approach demonstrates that modern warship construction does not have to be carried out solely by one state shipyard. On the contrary – the appropriate utilization of the potential of private enterprises allows for increased efficiency, shortened schedules, and better use of the resources of the domestic industry.

Shipbuilding as a national project

Contemporary ship programs are strategic projects not only from the perspective of state security but also economic development. Each built unit engages dozens or even hundreds of suppliers of components, electronic systems, mechanical equipment, or IT solutions.

The French program for ocean patrol vessels shows that shipbuilding can become an effective tool for supporting the domestic industry. Through the cooperation of many enterprises, it is possible to maintain technological competencies, develop new products, and create highly specialized jobs.

It is worth noting that the involvement of private shipyards does not mean relinquishing state control over the project. On the contrary – the most important elements related to the integration of combat systems and military requirements remain under the supervision of specialized entities responsible for safety and compliance with naval requirements.

Conclusions for the Polish Navy

French experiences can serve as a valuable inspiration for programs carried out for the needs of the Polish Navy. Poland has been working for years to modernize its fleet and develop domestic shipbuilding potential. In this context, it is worth thoroughly analyzing the solutions used by countries with strong maritime traditions.

One of the most interesting aspects of the PO-PH program is the division of the shipbuilding process into "civilian" and "military" parts. This allows for the engagement of a broader range of enterprises, more efficient use of available production capacities, and the building of competencies across the entire maritime economy sector.

Poland has both state-owned and private entities with experience in the construction and modernization of floating units. Therefore, it is worth considering cooperation models that will allow the potential of all domestic market participants to be utilized. The choice of the best national suppliers of equipment, components, and systems is crucial to ensure that the largest possible portion of the project value remains in the domestic economy.

This approach not only supports the development of the industry but also increases the technological independence of the state and enables the building of competencies necessary for the implementation of future defense programs.

The future of the European shipbuilding industry

The Ocean Patrol Vessels Program PO-PH is further proof that the European shipbuilding industry remains one of the most advanced in the world. Collaboration between specialized companies, the use of domestic competencies, and consistent investment in technology development allow for the effective execution of even the most demanding projects.

The construction of ships for the militaryhas today become a process that encompasses not only the construction of the unit itself but also the integration of advanced electronic systems, digital solutions, and modern technologies that support mission management and crew safety.

The launching of the first patrol vessel PH1 "Trolley de Prévaux" marks an important milestone in the implementation of the French program and serves as an example of effectively utilizing the potential of the national industry. The success of this endeavor demonstrates that well-planned cooperation between the public and private sectors can yield tangible benefits for both the armed forces and the entire economy.

Congratulations are due to all the French designers, engineers, shipbuilders, and partners involved in the program's implementation. Their experiences can serve as valuable inspiration for future projects related to the development of the Polish shipbuilding industry and the modernization of the Polish Navy.

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