Planchais did not say when Morocco would sign the contract, reported at
470 million euro. A contract signing had been expected to take place or be
announced during the visit to Morocco by French Prime Minister Francois
Fillon, which ended on April 19.
DCNS said Morocco has become the first export customer of FREMM, jointly
developed by France and Italy. Executives said Morocco would receive the
same platform ordered by the French Navy.
"This success opens up new business opportunities for this type of
vessel as navies around the world seek to renew and modernize their fleets,"
Planchais said. "Ongoing cooperation with Morocco is a key factor as we
pursue development with new customers, particularly the Middle East."
FREMM was designed to include the Herakles multi-function radar, MU90
torpedoes as well as Exocet MM40 and Aster missiles. Executives said Morocco
could receive the frigate after 2010.