The submarines of France include nuclear attack submarines and nuclear ballistic missile submarines of various classes, operated by the French Navy as part of the French Submarine Forces. France also builds Scorpène-class submarines for international buyers; the Brazilian submarine Álvaro Alberto, a nuclear-powered boat, will be developed from this platform.

Each French Navy vessel, including submarines, has their respective fanion insignia for military awards and decorations.

Each French submarine from Gymnote onwards when ordered/constructed was given a sequential hull number (prefixed by the letter 'Q'). The sequence included submarines built in France for foreign navies, accounting for several gaps in the 'Q' numbering below.