The 125-meter “Surcouf” (F711) is a La Fayette-class frigate of the French Navy, launched at the at Lorient Naval Dockyard in 1993. Her 100 mm naval gun is clearly visible in this photo.
The ships of this class are considered “stealth” (furtive in French) frigates because they have a reduced radar cross section obtained with a clean superstructure, angled sides and radar absorbent material. A battery of eight Crotale missiles and at least one Exocet launcher are visible at midship.
Usually, trying to take the picture of a flag is a good way to make the wind drop. I am glad it didn't work this time.
External links: French frigate Surcouf (F711) - La Fayette-class frigate - French 100 mm naval gun - Crotale - Exocet (Wikipedia)
Quite an impressive ship.
ReplyDeleteImpressive! Excellent shot of the flag too. I always have trouble photographing them.
ReplyDeleteIs it my imagination or does it look like this ship has sustained some serious damage near the bow and elsewhere near the water line?
ReplyDeleteLiving in Livorno gives you a lot of insight into these ships.
ReplyDeleteI really like that last shot.
ReplyDeleteGreat documentary images.
ReplyDeleteAre they open for the public to visit?
Sometimes they are open here for a few hours on Saturdays or Sundays.
It must be very special to live and work on these solid things for weeks at the time.
Impressive ship !
ReplyDeleteThese are truly great. Thanks VP.
ReplyDeleteThe wind was definitely on your side that day VP, perfect flag shot! You have many interesting visitors to your harbour.
ReplyDeleteSuper shot of the flag, VP. You're right that the wind usually drops just as the shutter clicks.
ReplyDeleteWhat on earth are they doing in Livorno?
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that I'm not the only one finding that wind just stops when I spot a flag...
Perfect flag shot!
ReplyDeleteNice facts and photos.
ReplyDeleteHow interesting!
ReplyDeleteBelle foto wow..
ReplyDeleteMorris