A new offshore patrol boat built by DCNS of France with company funding is undergoing its first sea trials to validate its nautical qualities, DCNS announced.

The initial sea trials mark the beginning of the next phase of the ambitious Gowind OPV program, which spearheads DCNS's efforts to win a larger share of the markets for small- and medium-displacement surface ships.

The sea trials are beginning in line with the contract schedule, just 14 months after construction started on the Gowind L'Adroit.

"The start of these first sea trials is a symbolic milestone that testifies to the remarkable teamwork between DCNS, the project's investors and co-contractors, and the trial crews," said Gowind OPV Program Manager Marc Maynard. "Everybody has brought their knowledge and expertise to the table and their unflagging commitment has made it possible to consistently meet the program's ambitious industrial milestones."

During the sea trials, more than 50 technicians on the vessel are conducting an intensive test campaign to validate its seakeeping and other nautical qualities. After testing the ship's firefighting, flood control and other safety systems, the onboard team will be running trials with the propulsion system and checking vessel maneuverability. Tests will also be conducted on the ship's navigation systems, inertial platforms and other systems.

When the vessel returns to dock, outfitting of the last equipment compartments and painting work will continue.

Construction is scheduled for completion by DCNS at the end of this year.

DCNS said the start of the sea trials demonstrates its ability to design and build a highly innovative ship in less than 24 months in strict compliance with budget commitments.

OPV L'Adroit, being built under a DCNS-funded program, will be made available to the French navy for three years on completion to enable the navy to qualify the OPV as "sea proven," giving DCNS an exceptionally strong argument when promoting the Gowind family on the international market.

The navy will demonstrate the Gowind's relevance and operational value for current and emerging missions on the high seas, from area surveillance to anti-piracy, counter-terrorism, fisheries policing, drug interdiction, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, search and rescue and maritime safety and security.

OPV L'Adroit is about 285 feet in length; an at-sea endurance of three weeks; a range of 8,000 nautical miles; and a top speed of 21 knots.

The vessel has a helicopter flight deck and can accommodate unmanned aerial vehicle operations.

DCNS said the ship features a number of major innovations for navies, commandos and coast guards: 360-degree panoramic visibility from the bridge, a single integrated mast for 360-degree radar coverage, covert deployment of fast commando boats in less than 5 minutes and provision for UAVs and unmanned surface vehicles.

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