The discussion distinguishes minelaying submarines from boats intended primarily to attack shipping with torpedoes. Émeraude provides an example of the projected capability, with mine capacity and operating range central to its usefulness. The wider French submarine programme also includes the Aurore type. These specialised boats are part of the rearmament that an additional peacetime interval could bring forward.
Notable Point · 25:49-26:48
French minelaying submarines add a specialised fleet capability
The French submarine programme includes specialised minelayers whose value depends on carrying mines to useful positions.