French ship Jules Verne (A620)
The Jules Verne (A620) is a dedicated support and assistance ship (Bâtiment de Soutien et d'Assistance Métropolitain - BSAM) of the French Navy (Marine Nationale). Commissioned in 2008, the ship is named after the famed French author of science fiction, Jules Verne.
Primarily designed to provide support to the French nuclear submarine force (Force Océanique Stratégique - FOST) based at Île Longue, near Brest, the Jules Verne performs a variety of roles. These include transporting supplies, materials, and personnel to and from submarines, as well as providing workshops and repair facilities at sea. The ship is equipped with specialized handling equipment and a large deck space to accommodate the unique needs of submarine support.
Beyond its submarine support duties, the Jules Verne is also capable of conducting general logistical support operations, assisting civilian authorities in disaster relief, and participating in search and rescue missions. Its robust capabilities and versatile design make it a valuable asset to the French Navy.
The Jules Verne is characterized by its distinctive design, incorporating a large aft deck and significant internal capacity. It is crewed by both military personnel and civilian technicians, reflecting its complex operational profile.