The French Navy’s (Marine Nationale) last two FREMM Frigates (in anti-submarine warfare variant) Normandie (D651)  and Bretagne (D655) have been modified in order to be able to deploy MBDA's Aster 30 long range surface to air missiles. Earlier frigates of the class are limited to the shorter range Aster 15 missiles because of shorter VLS systems.

As two Cassard-class Frigate are nearing the end of their service life, French Navy decided to modify Bretagne and Normandie so they would be able to deploy Aster 30.

The frigates Bretagne and Normandie will be capable air defence surface combatant, able to escort high value units such as the French Navy LHD should the need arises. To do so, the two SYLVER A43 systems have been replaced by the taller SYLVER A50.

Naval Group is now constructing two FREDA, air defence variants of the FREMM frigate.

The Aster missile family comprises Aster 15 for short to medium range and Aster 30 for short to long range. There is extensive commonality between the two variants with both missiles featuring the same terminal dart.