The SCORPION program, a major modernization initiative of the French Army, reached a significant milestone at the SCORPION Days held in Canjuers, France. Marking ten years since its launch, the program has seen the delivery of 723 GRIFFON, 296 SERVAL, and 91 JAGUAR vehicles, underscoring its impact on the modernization of French ground forces.
The event, which spanned two days, featured dynamic tactical demonstrations and provided an opportunity for foreign delegations to gain insights into the program’s operational effectiveness. The demonstrations highlighted the performance and adaptability of the SCORPION vehicles, with a particular focus on recent upgrades and the vehicles’ capabilities in varied environments.
Production and Expansion: The first vehicles from the SCORPION program were delivered in 2019. Since then, substantial investments have been made in the final assembly site at KNDS France in Roanne. Production capacity has increased from 92 to 300 vehicles per year, and there are plans to expand this further to 450 vehicles annually. The site’s operations also include machining processes crucial for vehicle protection and integration.
One of the key features of the SCORPION program is the adaptability of its vehicles. Originally designed with three versions of the GRIFFON, the program now includes six, with new variants such as the GRIFFON MEPAC (Mounted Mortar for Close Support) entering service. Additionally, the GRIFFON Medical Evacuation variant, designed to enhance casualty evacuation, is now being deployed.
Technological Advancements and Operational Feedback: The SCORPION vehicles benefit from continuous upgrades driven by operational feedback, particularly from deployments in the Sahel and Eastern Europe. These updates, included under Increment 2, focus on enhancing vehicle robustness, ergonomics, and stealth features. The first batch of vehicles incorporating these improvements is expected to enter service in 2026 after qualification tests later this year.
A critical component of the program’s technological advancements is the SCORPION Combat Information System (SICS), which enables real-time battlefield data sharing and collaborative combat. This system is now integrated into the vehicles, allowing for more effective coordination on the battlefield. Additionally, the 6th Light Armored Brigade (6e BLB) has become the first combined arms brigade fully equipped with SCORPION systems.
Foreign Participation and Future Outlook: SCORPION Days also served as a platform for foreign delegations to learn more about the program through discussions on topics like doctrinal evolution, the organization of digitized units, and the operational impact of SCORPION vehicles. These exchanges provided valuable perspectives on the future of land warfare, with a focus on interoperability and logistics, which are integral to the SCORPION program.
The program continues to evolve, with new capabilities being introduced, including artillery targeting and satellite communication technologies. In 2024, France also received the 34th upgraded Leclerc tank, part of a broader modernization effort that includes 200 tanks in total.
With further deliveries expected in the coming years, including the addition of counter-drone and ground-based air defense variants for the SERVAL vehicle, the SCORPION program remains a cornerstone of France’s military modernization efforts, reflecting its commitment to advancing armored vehicle technology and operational capabilities.