The first contract, awarded to MBDA France, covers the delivery of eight VL MICA NG launchers, which will replace 12 Crotale NG air defense batteries previously provided to Ukraine. The VL MICA NG systems will be operational in France by 2030 and increase to 12 by 2035.
A second contract with KNDS France will develop two new self-propelled air defence systems for the French Army. These systems, based on the VBMR-L Serval armoured vehicle, include 30 DSA (surface-to-air defence) and 24 LAD (anti-drone) vehicles. The DSA vehicles will integrate MBDA’s ATLAS RC turret, armed with two Mistral 3 missiles, providing mobile air defence for ground forces. The LAD variant will be equipped with the ARX-30 NEROD turret, designed to counter drones with a 30mm cannon and electronic warfare capabilities. A third contract with MBDA Fr will deliver SIMBAD RC naval defence systems, which use MISTRAL missiles for shipborne self-defence. These will be installed on offshore patrol vessels and replenishment ships. The fourth contract involves a new 40mm programmable anti-aircraft munition for the French Navy, developed by KNDS and Thales LAS, which will integrate into the fleet’s existing 40mm artillery systems.These contracts, in addition to the Franco-Italian SAMP-T NG system, will contribute to a modern and integrated air defence system for France, reinforcing its defence against evolving aerial and drone threats. French Minister of Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu confirmed the contracts during the Second European Air and Missile Defence Conference, emphasizing their role in strengthening France’s military preparedness.
