French Air Defense Systems Ordered for 2024-2030
The French Directorate General for Armaments (DGA) has announced a significant investment in air defense and counter-drone systems, amounting to 600 million euros (approximately $624 million). This initiative is part of the Military Programming Law for the years 2024 to 2030, which aims to enhance the air defense capabilities of the French Armed Forces across all branches. With an overall budget of 5 billion euros ($5.2 billion), this program is set to modernize and strengthen France’s defense infrastructure over the coming decade.
According to a press release from the DGA, the primary objective of these programs is to facilitate continuous advancements in the performance of weapon systems and improve their capabilities. This strategic move underscores France’s commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture in response to evolving global security challenges.
Contracts Awarded to French Defense Companies
In a competitive bidding process, three prominent French companies have been awarded four contracts to support this ambitious air defense initiative: MBDA France, KNDS France, and Thales. The first contract with MBDA France involves supplying eight vertical launch (VL) MICA launchers along with munitions for the French Air and Space Force. This system is designed to be mounted on vehicles, providing a short-range defense solution particularly adept at countering mass assaults from low-signature threats, including guided bombs and cruise missiles.
The VL MICA system integrates a vehicle-mounted command and control unit, a three-dimensional radar system, and multiple vertical launchers, all of which enhance the operational flexibility and effectiveness of the French Air and Space Force.
Enhancing Mobile Air Defense for Ground Forces
Another critical component of the procurement effort is a contract awarded to KNDS France for the development and production of two new versions of the SERVAL multi-role armored vehicle. This includes the delivery of 30 SERVAL DSA vehicles, specifically designed for ground-to-air defense, which will be equipped with the advanced ATLAS RC turret from MBDA France capable of firing the MISTRAL surface-to-air missile.
Additionally, the contract encompasses 24 SERVAL LAD vehicles, which are intended for counter-drone operations. These vehicles will feature a remotely operated turret armed with a 30 mm cannon and advanced detection systems, including radar and a radio frequency detector. The DGA has indicated that these vehicles will be tailored for high-intensity conflict scenarios, contributing to the Army’s efforts to establish a protective anti-aircraft bubble around deployed land forces.
Integrating Ship-Mounted Air Defense Systems
The third contract awarded to MBDA France focuses on the acquisition of the SIMBAD-RC anti-air self-defense system, designed for integration aboard French Navy vessels. This system utilizes the MISTRAL missile as its primary weapon and will be fitted onto offshore patrol vessels and supply ships, significantly bolstering their defensive capabilities.
Furthermore, KNDS France and Thales Land & Air Systems are collaborating on the development of a 40 mm anti-aircraft artillery munition, which will also be deployed on French Navy ships. This addition aims to enhance the self-defense capabilities of naval vessels, ensuring a comprehensive air defense strategy across all military domains.
A Comprehensive Defense Strategy
The DGA highlighted that the introduction of these new systems, along with the Franco-Italian SAMP-T NG high-layer ground-to-air defense system from EUROSAM (THALES LAS and MBDA), will enable France to possess a modern and efficient array of surface-to-air defense and anti-drone capabilities. This comprehensive strategy is designed to address a wide range of threats in a coordinated manner.
With these advancements, France is not only enhancing its national defense but also reinforcing its commitments to NATO and European security objectives, ensuring that its armed forces remain prepared to respond effectively to any emerging threats.
