THUNDART, first presented at the Eurosatory defence exhibition in 2024, is designed to replace the French Army’s ageing unitary rocket launchers (LRUs), which are limited to a 70-kilometre range. The new system features a ground-to-ground rocket with a range of 150 kilometres.
In response to the changing strategic environment and the lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, the French Army is seeking to expand its long-range strike capabilities. The LRUs currently in service are expected to become obsolete in the coming years, prompting the need for a modern replacement.
MBDA and Safran Electronics & Defense bring together key capabilities to deliver the THUNDART system. MBDA contributes its expertise in land combat systems and deep strike, along with the industrial capacity to mass-produce tactical munitions. Safran provides guidance technology based on its modular air-to-ground AASM.
“THUNDART is a solution based on maturity,” the companies stated. Both partners have been working together since 2024 to meet the requirements set by the DGA.
THUNDART will be fully developed and produced in France, with MBDA relying on its factories in the Centre-Val de Loire region. “This system ensures complete freedom in the event of conflict, the export of equipment (ITAR free), and absolute control over future developments, as well as production,” the companies said.
Technically, the system will be autonomous, off-road capable, and able to operate in a wide range of temperatures. It will be designed to strike fixed or mobile targets and connect with the French Army’s information systems, including the ATLAS fire control system.
The fire control system will be adapted from the one currently used on the CAESAR howitzer, also designed by Safran Electronics & Defense. THUNDART is currently the only solution of its kind produced in Europe.
Source: MBDA.
