French ship Monge (A601)

The Monge (A601) is a tracking ship (Bâtiment d'Essais et de Mesures, BEM) of the French Navy. Named after the French mathematician Gaspard Monge, it is designed to support the testing of French strategic weapons, particularly submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The Monge is equipped with a wide array of sophisticated radar and sensor systems to track missiles and collect telemetry data during test flights.

The vessel's primary role is to observe and analyze the trajectory and performance of missiles launched from submarines or land-based test facilities. This data is crucial for validating the accuracy and reliability of the French nuclear deterrent. The Monge typically operates in the Atlantic Ocean and other designated test areas.

The ship is characterized by its distinctive large radomes, which house the various radar antennas. These radomes are a visual identifier and differentiate it from other types of naval vessels. The Monge's operations are often conducted in collaboration with other French military assets and international partners. It has been in service since the late 1990s.