OVERVIEW: The F21 Artemis is a heavyweight, wire- and fiber-optic–guided torpedo developed by France under the Artémis program and introduced in 2017. It is deployed from submarines to engage both surface vessels and submarines with advanced offensive capabilities.

DETAILS: The designation “F21” signifies its position as the next-generation heavyweight torpedo following the F17, developed collaboratively by Naval Group, Thales, and Atlas Elektronik. It measures approximately 6.0 m in length, weighs around 1 300 kg, and is 533 mm in diameter. Propelled electrically via dual contra-rotating propellers and powered by aluminum‑silver oxide (AgO‑Al) batteries, it reaches speeds over 50 kn and effective ranges beyond 50 km. The torpedo employs wire/fiber-optic mid-course guidance and switches to autonomous active/passive acoustic homing for terminal targeting, optimized for both blue-water and littoral environments.

TYPE: Heavyweight Torpedo

FUNCTION: Launched from standard 533 mm submarine tubes, the F21 is guided mid-course via wire or fiber-optic link, then autonomously homes in using its acoustic seeker. It is effective against both submarines and surface ships in deep or coastal waters.

NOTE:
IOC: 2018/2019
Manufacturer: Naval Group (France), in partnership with Thales Underwater Systems and Atlas Elektronik
Platforms: Suffren-class SSN, Rubis-class SSN, Le Triomphant-class SSBN (France); Scorpène-class SSK (Brazil) 

SOURCE: 
Naval Group - Artémis torpille lourde F21; Ministère des Armées: F 21 Heavy Torpedo; Jane’s Naval Weapon Systems; Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems