The Cassard class (Type F70 AA) is a class of AA (air defence) frigates of the French Navy. The class is an air defence variant of the Georges Leygues class. The two classes have a different armament and propulsion system mounted on an identical hull. Their primary role is to provide air cover for a fleet, an aeronaval group, or a convoy. They can also be used for research, identification or presence missions. The experience gained during the design and construction of the Cassard type was used for the design of the La Fayette type. The two elements of the class are