French navy's frigates Ventose and Fougueouse arrived Thursday to the port city of Santiago de Cuba for a six-day visit.
The ships were received with military ceremony and will be open to Cuban civilians while the crew visits interesting parts of the city, situated about 850 kilometers southeast of Havana.
Patrol frigate Ventose, a modern ship 93 meters long and 14 wide, is being manned by Commander Stephane Valentini, and patrol boat Fougueuse, 55 meters long and 8 wide, by navy lieutenant, Francois Marescaux.
About a dozen boats of the French navy have visited Cuban ports in recent years, especially cruiser Jeanne D'Arc, which has been at the island seven times.