The contracts are part of a broader €5 billion investment in air defence modernisation. The new systems will be deployed across the French Army, Air and Space Force, and Navy, enhancing protection against aerial and drone threats while replacing older equipment.
The first contract, awarded to MBDA France, involves the delivery of eight VL MICA NG launchers, along with missiles and spare parts, for the French Air and Space Force. These systems will replace 12 Crotale NG air defence batteries previously supplied to Ukraine as military assistance. France is set to operate nine VL MICA NG launchers by 2030, increasing to 12 by 2035.
A second contract, signed with KNDS France, covers the development and production of two new self-propelled air defence systems for the French Army, based on the VBMR-L Serval armoured vehicle. The programme includes 30 DSA (défense sol-air) vehicles and 24 LAD (lutte anti-drone) vehicles, designed to counter aerial and drone threats in high-intensity conflict environments.
The DSA variant will be equipped with the ATLAS RC turret from MBDA France, integrating sensors for all-weather, day-and-night airspace surveillance and engagement. It will be armed with two short-range Mistral 3 surface-to-air missiles, providing mobile air defence support for deployed ground forces.
The LAD variant will feature the ARX-30 NEROD remote-controlled turret, developed by KNDS France. This system includes a 30mm 30M781 cannon for engaging unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), alongside an electronic warfare system capable of jamming drone communications. The turret can also be fitted with a radar for improved detection and targeting.
A third contract, also awarded to MBDA France, secures the procurement of SIMBAD RC naval defence systems, which deploy MISTRAL missiles for shipborne self-defence. These systems will be installed on offshore patrol vessels and replenishment ships to enhance naval security.
The fourth contract involves the development of a new 40mm programmable anti-aircraft munition for the French Navy. Developed by KNDS France and Thales LAS, this munition will be integrated into the naval fleet’s 40mm artillery systems to improve self-defence capabilities.
In combination with the Franco-Italian SAMP-T NG high-altitude air defence system, developed by EUROSAM (Thales LAS and MBDA), these acquisitions will provide France with a modern and integrated air defence system.
Source: DGA.
