French DGA Orders Air Defense, Anti-drone Systems From MBDA & KNDS

The French Directorate General for Armaments (DGA) ordered new surface-to-air defense (DSA) and anti-drone (LAD) systems from MBDA & KNDS France worth €600 million.

A first order, placed with MBDA France, concerns eight VL MICA launchers as well as munitions for the Air and Space Force.

A second order, placed with KNDS France, concerns the development and production of two new versions of the SERVAL (DSA and LAD versions). Adapted to the conditions of engagement in high-intensity conflicts, they contribute to the establishment by the Army of an accompanying anti-aircraft bubble, to protect land forces deployed in operations.

The DSA (ground-to-air defense) version, the initial order for which is for 30 units, will be equipped with the ATLAS RC turret from MBDA France, allowing the MISTRAL missile to be deployed under armor and also having a self-defense weapon in the turret.

The LAD (anti-drone) version, for which the initial order is for 24 units, will be equipped with a remotely operated turret incorporating a 30 mm cannon and autonomous detection systems (radar and radio frequency detector).

A third order, placed with MBDA France, concerns the acquisition of “SIMBAD RC” naval systems enabling the implementation of MISTRAL missiles. These systems must equip the French Navy’s offshore patrol vessels and supply vessels with enhanced self-defense capabilities. They are intended to help guarantee their freedom of action and security.

A fourth order concerns the development of a 40 mm anti-aircraft artillery munition. Adapted to the 40 mm artillery systems of the French Navy ships and developed by KNDS France and THALES LAS, it will also contribute to strengthening the ships' self-defense capabilities.

With these new systems and the Franco-Italian "high layer" ground-to-air defence system SAMP-T NG from EUROSAM (THALES LAS and MBDA), France will have a complete, modern and efficient range of surface-to-air defence and anti-drone capabilities capable of dealing with the entire spectrum of threats in a coordinated manner.