Egypt is negotiating with France for Barracuda-class submarines, aiming for local production rights and long-term program ownership.
Egypt is actively engaged in discussions with France regarding the procurement of Barracuda-class submarines, with a focus on securing extended production rights. Cairo aims for greater involvement in the production process and long-term program ownership, which has contributed to delays in contract signing. According to Tactical Report, the Egyptian government plans to commission the first submarine between 2032 and 2035 once the contract is finalized.
The anticipated contract, which is expected to cover four conventional submarines, is projected to be valued between 4.5 and 6.0 billion euros. These submarines will replace four aging Romeo-class submarines, thereby preventing a capability gap in the short term.
Negotiations have yet to reach the contract signing stage, as Egypt is reportedly seeking conditions that extend beyond immediate procurement. This includes local production rights and future export options.
Furthermore, the Barracuda-class submarines are expected to operate alongside four Type 209 submarines delivered between 2016 and 2021, effectively replacing the aging Romeo-class submarines. A significant factor delaying the process is Egypt's demand for local production rights. Cairo is pursuing an arrangement that allows local shipyards to gradually assume responsibilities for hull construction, integration, and long-term support, rather than being limited to final assembly.
Another critical point in the negotiations is Egypt's request for re-export rights for locally produced Barracuda-type submarines. This demand would enable Cairo to offer adapted versions to third countries in the future.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
