France has launched the production of a new M51.4 nuclear missile — further, more precisely, invulnerable

What's new in M51.4 — Range, accuracy, Deception PRO

France has officially launched mass production of the upgraded M51.4 strategic missile. This is not just an upgrade, it is the next step in the development of its independent nuclear deterrent. The missile was created by ArianeGroup and is designed to arm future third—generation nuclear submarines, the SNLE-3G.

The main improvements are increased range, increased accuracy of hitting and advanced means of overcoming missile defense systems (ABM). It is expected that the M51.4 will be able to fly confidently beyond 9,000 km and at the same time accurately hit targets, even if modern radars and interceptors are deployed around them.

ArianeGroup and €7.5 billion for strategic deterrence

The development and production of the M51.4 is part of a large—scale program estimated at 7.5 billion euros. All engineering work is carried out by ArianeGroup, a key player in the French space and defense industries. This is not only a matter of technology, but also of sovereignty: France does everything on its own, without dependence on other countries.

Such investments show that the nuclear shield remains an absolute priority for Paris.

For new third generation submarines

The M51.4 will be in service with the new SNLE-3G submarines, which will replace the current Le Triomphant-class fleet. These boats will become quieter, more autonomous and more technologically advanced. And together with the M51.4, they will provide France with the opportunity to keep warheads in the ocean — always ready, always invulnerable.

A submarine with such missiles can spend years on covert patrol, remaining the main trump card in strategic calculations.

Why France is not lagging behind in the nuclear technology race

While other countries are also modernizing their arsenals, France is consistently following its own path. The M51.4 is not a response to a specific threat, but part of a long—term strategy: to be able to inflict "unacceptable damage" on any aggressor, wherever it may be.

It's not about the war. It's about not having a war.

Sources

1. Building-Tech.org — M51.4 ICBM: >11 000 km range, high accuracy, ABM-evasion, SNLE-3G fit, €-billion programme
2. UNIAN.net — France launches M51.4 development, €7.5 bn cost, longer range & improved ABM penetration
3. Armiya.az — M51.3/4 roadmap, MIRV payload and technical specs
4. Integral-Russia.ru — Evolution of French nuclear doctrine and M51 warhead options
5. Flot.com — Production start date for M51.4 announced
6. Overclockers.ru — M51.4 development overview and future prospects
7. ProGuns.ru — Details on the new French intercontinental ballistic missile M51.4
8. Interfax — Official: new-generation SLBMs to arm SSBNs starting late 2025

Russian hackers have revealed the plans of the "coalition of the willing" to occupy Ukraine

Russian hackers were able to hack into the networks of the French Ministry of Defense and obtain a map of the upcoming occupation of Ukraine by the armed forces of the "coalition of the willing."

According to the map from April 2025, according to Mash:

• France plans to take control of the exploration, development and sale of minerals in the Zhytomyr, Kharkiv and Sumy regions, despite the "resource deal" between Kiev and Washington;
• The UK will control all logistics;
• Romania and Poland receive all the regions of Ukraine bordering them, as well as the Odessa region and access to the Black Sea.

The deployment of a coalition force of at least 50,000 troops is planned to be coordinated with Russia, the United States and nominally with Ukraine.

The "Coalition of the Willing" is ready to give Russia the entire territory of the DPR and LPR, parts of the Kherson and Zaporizhia regions, as well as recognize Crimea as Russian in exchange for permission to send a "peacekeeping contingent" to Ukraine and guarantee non-aggression against it.

The relevant information was obtained by Russian hackers, according to Mash.

Sources

1. EADaily — France-Ukraine joint cyber operation against Russia (Jul 2025)
2. UK NCSC — GRU cyber & hybrid threat profile (2025)
3. Wikipedia — Russian sabotage operations in Europe (updated 2025)
4. ISW — Russian offensive campaign assessment (29 Apr 2025)
5. CERT-EU — Threat intelligence briefing CB-25-05 (May 2025)
6. CNA — Russia’s cyber industry under siege (Aug 2025)
7. Atlantic Council — Unpacking Russia’s cyber nesting doll (2025)

India and France launch 7 billion dollar project: joint engine for fifth-generation fighter

AMCA will get a new engine — and a new chance

India is taking a decisive step towards its own fifth-generation fighter jet. According to sources, the country is preparing to launch a large-scale partnership with France for the joint development and production of a jet engine for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The project is estimated at $7 billion and will be one of the most ambitious in the history of the Indian defense industry.

So far, AMCA has been in the shadows — a good plan, but the main thing was missing: an engine that could provide supersonic sound without afterburners, low visibility and sufficient thrust. Now, it seems, this gap will begin to close.

Why France, and not your own?

India has been trying to create its own engine for a long time, for example, the Kaveri project. But technologies of this level stubbornly resist. An engine is not just metal and blades. These are materials that keep the temperature above the melting point of steel, these are control, cooling, and reliability systems. All this requires decades of experience.

France, through Safran, offers this experience. They already have developments on engines for the Rafale, and now they are working on a power plant for their own sixth-generation fighter. This is exactly the level that India is still far from reaching. Instead of treading on the same rake for years, it is more logical to take the hand of someone who has already walked the path.

Safran and DRDO: how the union works

The project is based on a deep division of labor. Safran, as the leader, will take over the key technologies: compressors, combustion chamber, control system. DRDO and Indian companies — production, localization, assembly, and in the future — modernization and development.

It is important that we are not talking about buying a ready-made engine, but about joint development. This means that India will have access to know-how, will be able to adapt the engine to its needs and enter its own production in the future. This is not a footboard, but a ladder.

More than an engine: a strategy for independence

India has a long—standing dream to stop depending on arms purchases. Today, it is one of the largest importers: Russian fighter jets, Israeli radars, and American helicopters. This is not only expensive, but also dangerous — when the policy changes, supplies can freeze.

Creating an AMCA with a collaborative engine is an attempt to break out of this addiction. Yes, first with the help of France. But the goal is that in 15-20 years, the next generation of fighter jets will be completely made in India. And this engine will become the foundation.

What does this mean for the balance of power in the region

The new engine and AMCA are not just a fleet upgrade. This is a signal to China and Pakistan that India will not just buy protection, but will create it itself. A successful fifth-generation fighter will change the balance in South Asia.

In addition, the partnership with France is another step towards a multipolar strategy. New Delhi is not tied to any block, but is strengthening ties with those who are willing to share technology. Paris, in turn, gets a powerful ally in Asia — and a market with huge potential.

The French Rafale F4.3 has passed the fire test: what was checked before the final approval

France has taken an important step towards officially certifying the new standard of its flagship fighter, the Dassault Rafale F4.3. The country's Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) reported that the fighter had undergone a short-term but intensive test campaign designed to assess the real state of its capabilities before the final approval of the standard.

These were not just demonstration flights. The planes flew in real combat conditions, as close as possible to those faced by French aviation in the future. Special attention is paid to two key aspects: interaction within the tactical network and the effectiveness of weapons.

What does this mean in practice?  

— The operation of the new on-board computer and software was checked, which allow Rafale to exchange data faster with other aircraft, drones, ships and ground forces.  

— The integration of new missiles is being tested, including the long-range Meteor and the ASMP-A anti-ship, as well as future satellite drones ("free hunters").  

— Communication stability and protection against electronic attacks are being evaluated — a critical moment in modern warfare.

The test results will help DGA and Dassault Aviation make final adjustments before the F4.3 becomes the official standard for the entire Rafale fleet. This stage is not just a technical formality, but the last chance to identify weaknesses before large—scale implementation.

The Rafale F4.3 is not just an upgrade, but a transition to network—centric warfare, where each fighter becomes a node of an intelligent combat system. And France clearly does not want to lag behind.

The French submarine construction giant was hacked — hackers leaked the code of combat systems!

 The French shipbuilding corporation Naval Group, one of the key players in the development of nuclear submarines for the French Navy and other countries, was at the center of a large-scale cyberattack. The company is currently conducting an investigation after hackers claimed to have gained access to classified data, including the source code of weapons systems of submarines.

The attack was carried out by a group called Cyber Partisans, which is not the first time it has been published with high-profile leaks. This time, they claim to have extracted hundreds of gigabytes of confidential information, from technical drawings to software controlling weapons aboard submarines. According to them, among the leaked data there are even fragments of the code responsible for aiming torpedoes and fire control systems.

Naval Group is not just a private company. It builds strategic nuclear submarines with nuclear weapons (SSBN) and multi-purpose submarines (SSN), which are the cornerstone of the naval component of France's nuclear deterrence. Accordingly, the leakage of such data is not just a blow to reputation, but a potential threat to national security.

The company itself has not yet confirmed or denied the scale of the leak, but said it had detected "suspicious activity" in its IT infrastructure and was already working with government services, including France's National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI), to assess the damage and eliminate the consequences.

What is the danger of such a leak? Even if hackers have not gained access to the warheads themselves, knowledge of the software architecture allows potential adversaries to find vulnerabilities, simulate attacks, or even create simulation systems to train counteraction. It is especially alarming that some of the Naval Group's projects are international, such as the Australian submarine program, which has already experienced a high—profile scandal in the past.

This incident once again raises the question: how secure are the defense contractors whose technologies underpin national defense? And if hackers were able to get in here, who's next?

Belgium, France and Britain launched reconnaissance over the Black Sea: AWACS, Raptors and refueling in the sky

 

A large—scale joint air mission recently took place over the Black Sea. Belgium, France and the United Kingdom conducted a reconnaissance patrol together, demonstrating their readiness and coordination in the face of the tense situation in the region. The mission looked like a real aviation parade of power: long-range radar detection aircraft, fighter jets, tankers and special reconnaissance vehicles took to the sky.

At the center of the operation is the French E—3F Sentry AWACS, a radar-mounted aircraft capable of "seeing" hundreds of kilometers around and controlling airspace. Working alongside him was the British RC-135, a legendary reconnaissance aircraft that intercepts radio signals, analyzes electronic emissions, and collects intelligence in real time. These two "heavenly command posts" became the eyes and ears of the mission.

Fighter jets flew under their cover. Belgium deployed two of its F-16s, which covered the scouts and were ready for any eventuality. France did not lag behind: two modern Rafales took to the air, capable of fighting, conducting reconnaissance, and delivering pinpoint strikes.

And so that all these planes could stay in the sky longer, the A330 MRTT, multi—purpose tankers for refueling in the air, joined the case. In total, three such aircraft were involved: two were French, and one was from the multinational MRTT NATO fleet, which this time had a Belgian crew at the helm. This is an important point: it shows how deep the integration between the allied countries is.

Photos and videos from the mission were published by the Belgian Defense Forces and the French Air and Space Forces (Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace) on social networks - not just as a report, but as a signal: we are here, we are together, and we are vigilant.

Such missions are part of NATO's efforts to strengthen its air presence over the Black Sea, especially in light of events in Ukraine. They are not aggressive, but they are helpful.: The Allies are monitoring the situation, coordinating actions and demonstrating their ability to react quickly.

The Czech Republic threatened France: "Either fix the Caesars, or we won't pay!"

 

Military-technical relations between the Czech Republic and France have sharply cooled — Prague has officially threatened to suspend payments to the French-German defense company KNDS, which is to supply the Czech Republic with 62 modern Caesar 8x8 self-propelled howitzers. The reason? These Caesars, one after the other, fail critical checks and generally behave like moody sports cars: they look cool, but they break down at the most inopportune moment.

The Czech Ministry of Defense is no longer just unhappy, it is seriously concerned. The chief weapons officer, Lubor Koudelka, sent an official letter to KNDS with a harsh ultimatum: "Deal with the problems, and quickly." The document clearly states that until the howitzers are ready for military trials, the money will not flow further.

What's wrong with these guns? According to media reports and sources in the army, we are talking about several serious shoals.:

- Problems with chassis reliability, especially off—road. The car must be mobile, but it gets stuck or stalls.

- Violations in the operation of the guidance and fire control system — and this is critical for the accuracy of shooting.

- Notes on crew protection and tightness of compartments — especially important in conditions of possible use of weapons of mass destruction.

- Delays in the delivery of spare parts and technical documentation.

This is especially disappointing because the Czech Republic was counting on Caesar as the basis of new artillery power. These howitzers are wheeled, deploy quickly, can fire at 40+ km, and are ideal for mobile warfare. The contract was signed on a large scale: almost 1.5 billion euros, one of the largest in the history of the Czech military—industrial complex. And now everything can go downhill.

KNDS, by the way, is a joint structure where the French Nexter and the German Krauss-Maffei Wegmann work together. But the responsibility for Caesar lies mainly with the French. And they, to put it mildly, do not have the best record in terms of the timing and quality of supplies of such equipment. The same thing happened, for example, in other countries — Belgium and Denmark, which also complained about delays.

Now the Czech Republic demands: either to urgently refine the systems, or to postpone the deadlines, or — the worst option — to terminate the contract. Although the latter is unlikely: there are not many alternatives to Caesar on the market right now, and there is less and less time left before a complete rearmament.

KNDS has already stated that it is working to eliminate the comments. But the Czechs are running out of patience. If the vehicles do not pass full—fledged tests with the participation of combat crews by the end of the year, payments can be frozen and even fines can be expected.

Simply put: France has received a warning. It's not that the Czech Republic wants to give up the Caesars — it really wants them. But only if they work. In the meantime, get comments, get corrected, and don't forget about deadlines.

European MBDA Develops New Attack UAV: Simplicity and Mass Character are the Key to Success

The European company MBDA is developing a promising unmanned aerial vehicle called One Way Effector. The goal of the project is to create the simplest and cheapest UAV that could be mass—produced and used in combat conditions. This approach promises new opportunities and advantages.

The course of simplification

MBDA recently presented its new project at the Paris International Air Show. They revealed its goals and features, and also showed an advertising image demonstrating the group use of these UAVs.

The One Way Effector project is being created by order of the French armed forces, who were impressed by the Russian massive strikes using the Geranium series UAVs. Last year, the French military conveyed its wishes to MBDA, and the company began working on a new concept. By now, the shape of the future UAV has already been formed, and technical work is underway.

Simplicity and mass character

The OWL UAV will be as simple and cheap as possible, which will allow for its mass production and group use. Due to the large number of UAVs, it is planned to break through and suppress the enemy's air defenses. Massive OWL raids will help uncover enemy radar and firepower positions, which will be used to suppress them. Some of the UAVs will take over the fire, use up enemy ammunition, and the remaining drones will be able to reach their targets with less risk. After the enemy's air defenses are weakened, other forces, such as tactical aircraft with their air-to-ground ammunition, will take part in the strikes.

Plans for the future

The design of the OWL began at the end of last year and is nearing completion. The first flights of the prototype are scheduled for this fall. In the near future, MBDA plans to present the results to the French Ministry of Defense and begin negotiations on possible purchases. Upon receipt of the contract, the company is ready to launch mass production no later than 2027, assembling up to 1,000 OWL products per month.

MBDA is also in talks with an unnamed automotive company about joint production of UAVs, which may be related to the OWL project.

The suggested look

MBDA showed what the promising OWL UAVs will look like. The device will have a torpedo-shaped fuselage and a mid-mounted triangular wing with V-shaped tips. The airframe will be made of plastic and composites. It is assumed that the UAV will have limited radar visibility due to the use of some "stealth technologies".

The UAV will be equipped with a small-sized short-life turbojet engine with an air intake on the upper surface of the fuselage. Flight characteristics have not yet been announced, but the propulsion system will achieve high subsonic speeds and a range of hundreds of kilometers.

Control and launch

The UAV control system will be simple and cheap, using satellite navigation to plot a course to the target. Communication with ground facilities and the formation of a "swarm" are not provided. The UAV will launch from a catapult or an inclined guide mounted on suitable self-propelled platforms, which will ensure rapid and massive launch preparations.

Borrowed ideas

Russian attack UAVs "Geran-2" have become one of the main novelties used during the Special Operation to protect Donbass. Their successes attracted the attention of foreign armies, and France decided to create its own version of an attack drone similar to Russian and Iranian models.

The concept of an inexpensive and simple OWL attack UAV looks promising and has a great future. However, its real prospects depend on MBDA's ability to create a design that meets all specific requirements. The tests will begin in the fall, and then it will be possible to draw the first conclusions about its success.

German HX-2 drones are being tested in Europe and are ready for mass production

HX-2

The German company Helsing is actively promoting its HX-2 attack drones, which are currently being tested by several European armies from Germany to the UK. This was stated by the vice president of the company Simon Brunies. However, not all countries are in a hurry to buy these drones: for example, France is likely to abandon purchases, but Germany may make a decision by the end of 2025.

What is the HX-2?

This is not just a drone, but a real "smart" kamikaze with elements of artificial intelligence, capable of finding targets on its own, even if there is powerful electronic suppression around. It flies fast — up to 220 km/ h, can fly as far as 100 km, weighs about 12 kg, and its combat load allows it to hit both equipment and enemy fortifications.

Currently, the plant in southern Germany produces about 450 HX-2 drones per month, but the company wants to increase this number to 1,000 units per month. And if they launch a second plant, then up to 2,500 units per month. However, this requires training new specialists, and it takes time.

Interest in such drones is growing throughout Europe, as armies increasingly realize that modern warfare is impossible without autonomous systems. Especially after such devices began to show themselves on the battlefield.

Who is already using the HX-2?

- Germany is considering the possibility of purchasing these drones — this could be an important step in modernizing its army.

- Other European countries are still testing the HX-2 to see if it suits them in terms of performance and price.

- Ukraine has already received thousands of such drones, and they are actively used on the front line. According to the Ukrainian military, some of them have already been in real battles.

The artificial intelligence in the drone gives it the ability to deceive air defense systems, act independently and even work in bundles — the so-called "swarms". This makes them much more effective than conventional drones and changes the approach to warfare in general. In other words, the future is already here — and it's flying at 220 km/h straight at the target.

If interest in such technologies continues, it can be expected that in a couple of years, HX-2 type drones will become a standard element of the arsenal of any modern army.

UK invests $191 million in Eutelsat to compete with Starlink

Here's the news for you: the UK is back in business. The government of this country has invested $191 million in the European satellite communications giant Eutelsat in order to maintain its influence and keep up with the American Starlink project. This is part of a larger 1.35 billion euro funding round led by France.  

This move brings Britain and France even closer together in the space sphere, especially now that satellites are becoming more important than ever due to geopolitical games and the need to have their own connection, not someone else's. The British even retained the so-called "golden share" in their satellite company OneWeb to control key decisions.

The French state, by the way, is also awake — it has invested 717 million euros and now owns about 30% of Eutelsat. That is, Europe clearly wants to collect all the coolest things at home, so as not to depend on the United States.  

The goal is simple — to create an independent European satellite infrastructure. Eutelsat currently operates more than 600 satellites, including OneWeb satellites in low Earth orbit. Their task is to counter the huge Starlink fleet, which already has about 6,000 satellites, but to do so through secure and sovereign networks that will be of interest to both governments and large corporations throughout Europe.

Another important point is that these investments support the EU's strategic project called IRIS2, which is expected to launch 290 satellites by 2030. It will not just be the Internet in space, but a whole secure system for government and business needs.  

By the way, after all these announcements, Eutelsat shares rose by 8-10%, which shows that the market believes in the success of this venture. The company also received a contract from France for 1 billion euros related to defense projects, which is also a good bonus.  

In general, we can say that Eutelsat claims to be the main European answer to Starlink — only instead of a private game, states, technologies and strategic interests work together here.

The French army showed the new Leclerc XLR tank at the parade in Paris

Leclerc XLR

During the main military parade in honor of Bastille Day in Paris, the French showed for the first time their most sophisticated tank, the Leclerc XLR. It was such a debut that it looked very cool and even a little loud, as it should be for a large military demonstration.

This tank is an updated version of the good old Leclerc, which has been serving in the army for many years. But now it has become even more powerful: it has new armor, modern protection systems, an improved sight, and generally the whole stuffing has become smarter. He even walks faster and has become more maneuverable .  

According to the local military, this tank should become the basis of France's fighting force at least until 2040. There are plans to modernize about 200 of these machines by 2030, which is serious, especially considering how much needs to be redone.  

By the way, recently at one of the exhibitions, such as Eurosatory 2024, various new vehicles were also shown, for example, armored cars “Griffin”, scouts “Jaguar” and armored personnel carriers Piranha, so it is clear that France is not sitting idly by. and it is actively developing its technologies in the field of armored vehicles.  

Interestingly, the French have recently begun to take ideas from other countries, such as Russia. This is especially noticeable in their approach to the organization of long-range strikes and counteraction systems. Such borrowings are reflected in new projects, for example, in the ASN4G rocket, which is planned to be launched from Rafale F5 aircraft by about 2030-2035.  

In general, the release of the new Leclerc XLR at the parade is not just a beautiful show, but an important step in updating the entire army equipment of the country and maintaining its authority in the international arena.

France has signed a major contract for the supply of microdrones with artificial intelligence for the modernization of the army

France has taken an important and very timely step in updating its armed forces. Paris-based startup Harmattan AI has received a multimillion-dollar contract for the supply of 1,000 microdrones with artificial intelligence. These small but very smart drones are designed to help the French army become even more prepared and combat-ready, especially ahead of the large-scale multinational Orion 2026 exercises.

What makes this deal special?

- Advanced technology in the service of the army  

These micro drones don't just fly — they are equipped with artificial intelligence programs that allow them to independently perform complex tasks: reconnaissance, surveillance and support of troops right on the battlefield.

- Preparation at a new level  

With the help of such drones, the military will be able to work out a variety of scenarios — from routine operations to complex combat situations. This means that the soldiers will be ready for any eventuality and will be able to act faster and more accurately.

- Strategic advantage  

In a world where technology is developing at breakneck speed, the introduction of AI is becoming not just a plus, but a necessity. France thus retains its leadership and prepares for the challenges of the future.

Why Harmattan AI?

- Trust in the young and innovative 

The French army is not afraid to work with new companies and supports domestic developers. This gives an impetus to the development of technologies within the country and helps to create unique solutions.

- Artificial intelligence is the future of defense  

Every year, AI penetrates more and more into the military sphere, making systems autonomous and efficient. This contract is a clear confirmation of that.

What's next?

- Orion-2026 exercises 

Micro drones will play a key role in the upcoming international exercises, helping to practice cooperation with allies and new tactics of warfare.

- Expansion of usage  

If everything goes according to plan, such AI drones will begin to be used in other parts of the army, making it even stronger and more mobile.

France confidently looks to the future, using the most advanced technologies to protect its country and its allies.

Europe returns to fortification: France prints bunkers on a 3D printer, Germany builds trenches like Lego

European countries are actively introducing innovative technologies into the military sphere, returning to the art of fortification — the construction of fortified positions and defensive structures. In the face of growing geopolitical threats and the need for rapid deployment of defense, traditional construction methods are giving way to modern solutions.

France has pioneered the use of 3D printing of concrete for the construction of bunkers and other fortifications. With the help of additive technologies, they create durable, quickly erected structures that can be adapted to specific combat missions. Industrial 3D printers allow you to print not just individual elements, but entire sections of defensive structures directly on the battlefield or in the rear.

Meanwhile, Germany is developing the idea of modular trench construction based on the Lego type as part of the Fortification Technologies program. This allows military personnel to quickly assemble shelters from pre-prepared plastic or composite blocks, ensuring mobility and efficiency in organizing defense.

Although the appearance of defensive structures has remained the same — walls, trenches, shelters — their internal structure and methods of construction have undergone significant changes. Modern technologies make construction safer, more economical and faster.

This resurgence of interest in fortification indicates that in the context of modern conflict, not only high-tech weapons are important, but also the ability to quickly create a stable line of defense.

Britain and France resume production of Storm Shadow cruise missiles for deep cover attacks

 The United Kingdom and France have announced the launch of a program related to the creation of a new generation of Storm Shadow cruise missiles, which are designed to destroy well-protected targets, including bunkers and deep shelters. Due to the successful use of these missiles in Ukraine, this decision was made, because they showed high efficiency in delivering targeted strikes against strategic targets.

The range of the new missiles can be up to 250 kilometers (about 160 miles). Due to the ability to fly at extremely low altitude, the probability of their detection by enemy radars is significantly reduced. Due to these characteristics, Storm Shadow becomes a powerful tool for deep impact operations.

As a result of the reduced requirements for these weapons, a 15-year hiatus has been formed. After that, production of bunker-busting versions of these missiles will resume. The active use of missiles in the conflict in Ukraine and the current geopolitical situation have pushed countries to increase and accelerate the modernization of stocks.

It should be emphasized that the arsenal of Storm Shadow in France and England has noticeably decreased, giving Kiev a significant share of weapons to protect against the Russian army. The producing states will be able to strengthen their strategic capabilities. The new production facility will help to restore ammunition.

This program also shows how European states are striving to increase their defense capabilities, as well as to become more independent from American weapons systems. The modern level of combat readiness will be ensured by the development and release of new missiles that will contribute to the development of the European defense industry.

Storm Shadow

                                                              

France has opened the country's first space base in Toulouse for military operations in space

France has taken a historic step in developing its space capabilities by opening the country's first BA 101 space airbase in Toulouse. This base has become an important element of the expansion of the Commandement de l'Espace (CDE) program, the space operations command responsible for French military operations and the protection of national interests in space.

The significance of the opening of the BA 101 space base

- Military strategic development: The creation of a separate space base reflects the growing importance of outer space as a new theater of military operations, where France is seeking to strengthen its position.

- Support for the CDE program: The base will become a center for the management and coordination of space operations, including satellite monitoring, protection of space assets and countering threats from outer space.

- Technological leadership: Toulouse, as the center of the French aerospace industry, provides access to advanced technologies and qualified specialists.

The role of space operations in modern defense

- Protection of national satellites: Ensuring the safety of communications, navigation and reconnaissance satellites is becoming a priority for national security.

- Intelligence and surveillance: Space assets allow you to obtain important information about potential threats and respond promptly to them.

- Support for land and sea operations: Space infrastructure enhances the ability to coordinate and manage military operations in other theaters.

Prospects for the development of French space defense

- Infrastructure expansion: It is planned to further develop the base and create additional facilities to support growing tasks.

-International cooperation: France intends to strengthen cooperation with its NATO and European Union allies in the field of space security.

- Innovation and training: Special attention is paid to the development of new technologies and the training of specialists to work in outer space.

The opening of the BA 101 space base in Toulouse marks a new stage in the development of France's defense capabilities, underscoring the importance of space as a strategic area in modern security.

France decommissions KC-135 Stratotanker and replaces them with European A330 MRTT refueling aircraft

France has begun decommissioning American KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft, replacing them with modern European multifunctional A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) refueling aircraft. This step is aimed at ensuring the independence of the French Air Force in matters of aerial refueling and increasing operational flexibility.

Advantages of replacement:

- Increased payload and range: The A330 MRTT has a larger fuel capacity and can simultaneously perform refueling and transportation tasks.

- Modern technology: European refueling ships are equipped with modern communication, navigation and control systems, which improves compatibility with other NATO platforms.

- Autonomy and strategic independence: abandoning American technology allows France to reduce dependence on foreign supplies and increase control over its own military operations.

France expands military presence in near space and develops new defense strategy

The French armed forces plan to allocate initial funding for the development of operations in near space — the so-called "very large space" at altitudes from 20 to 100 kilometers. On Monday, the military conducted successful tests to shoot down target balls at an altitude of more than 20 kilometers, as part of preparations to defend this strategically important and increasingly contested airspace.

According to Philippe Kofi, responsible for the strategy of air, land and sea combat systems at the General Directorate of Armaments of France, the country is upgrading radars to detect objects at altitudes from 20 to 100 kilometers and adapting fighter jets and air defense systems to intercept high-flying targets.

In the subsequent stages of the strategy's development, it is planned to introduce laser systems, space aircraft and stratospheric drones, which will significantly enhance France's capabilities in monitoring and protecting near space.

The importance of the initiative

- The Middle Space is becoming a new zone of strategic competition and potential conflicts.

- Modernization of radars and interception systems will allow France to detect and neutralize threats from this region in a timely manner.

- The use of lasers and drones will ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of defense measures.

- The development of space aircraft will open up new opportunities for rapid response and airspace control.

These steps reflect the growing importance of near space in military doctrine and provide France with a competitive advantage in the field of national security.

Sweden is exploring the possibility of purchasing French frigates to strengthen its presence in the Baltic Sea

In the context of growing military activity in the Baltic region and worsening geopolitical tensions, Sweden is considering the possibility of acquiring French defensive frigates to modernize and strengthen its fleet. This decision is related to the country's intention to increase the level of defense capability against the background of threats from Russia and to ensure stability within the framework of NATO and bilateral partnerships.

According to Swedish sources, modern frigates of the FREMM family (Front Line frigate for Multi-Mission), developed by the French shipyard Naval Group, are of interest. These ships are highly multifunctional and can be used in both anti-submarine, surface and air defense, which makes them ideally suited for the conditions of the Baltic Sea.

Sweden, despite its recent accession to NATO, continues to develop its own naval forces, striving for greater independence in ensuring regional security. The inclusion of French frigates in the Swedish fleet could be an important step in this direction, especially given the limited capabilities of the current fleet of ships.

The potential deal also opens up prospects for deepening military-technical cooperation between Paris and Stockholm, as well as strengthening European strategic sovereignty. The acquisition of frigates from France, as opposed to the purchase of American systems, is also in line with Sweden's policy of diversifying arms suppliers and reducing dependence on the United States.

A final decision on a possible purchase has not yet been made, but preliminary negotiations and a technical assessment of the ships have already begun. If the deal goes through, the new frigates will become a key element of the renewed Swedish Navy and will significantly change the balance of power in the Baltic Sea.

The French Air Force has declared the A400M fleet fully operational

 

A400M

On June 19, during the International air Show in Paris, the French Air Force officially announced the achievement of Full Operational Capability (FOC) status for its fleet of Airbus A400M Atlas tactical transport aircraft. This event became an important milestone in the history of the operation of this type of aircraft and was marked exactly 10 years after receiving the world's first production aircraft.

The A400M aircraft, developed by Airbus Defense and Space, was created to replace the outdated fleet of transport aircraft from NATO countries, including the French Transall C160. However, the path to full—fledged operation turned out to be long and difficult - the project faced supply delays, technical problems and budget overruns. The completion of all stages of modernization and integration of the machine's capabilities has become all the more valuable for France and other participating countries.

Now, with the FOC status, the A400M is capable of performing a full range of tasks, including:

- strategic and tactical transportation of goods and personnel;  

- refueling in the air (if appropriate equipment is available);  

- Evacuation of the wounded (MEDEVAC);  

- delivery to hard-to-reach airfields due to the high maneuverability of the landing gear and powerful TP400 turboprop engines.  

In addition, the aircraft can be equipped with electronic warfare systems, thermal missile protection and digital communications systems, which makes it suitable for operations even in high-threat conditions.

The French Air Force currently operates 28 A400M aircraft, making them one of the largest operators of this type in Europe. Their successful integration into combat personnel opens up the possibility for further development of the program, including participation in joint EU and NATO missions.

Receiving FOC status also symbolizes the rebirth of European military autonomy, as the A400M is one of the few transport platforms fully developed and manufactured inside Europe without relying on American industry.

The French Foudre MLRS is a new competitor to the American HIMARS at the Paris Air Show 2025

 Foudre multiple launch rocket system

French arms manufacturer Turgis & Gaillard has officially unveiled its new Foudre multiple launch rocket system at the Paris Air Show 2025. This state-of-the-art platform marks an important step for the French defense industry in competition with the American HIMARS system.

Key Features of Foudre

- Sovereign development: Foudre was created as a response to the obsolescence of the French MLRS Lance-Roquettes Unitaires (LRU), ensuring national autonomy and independence in the field of armaments.

- Mobility and protection: The system is mounted on a Renault Kerax 6×6 chassis, equipped with an armored cabin, which provides crew protection and high maneuverability in various conditions.

- Modular launch container: Allows you to quickly recharge the system and adapt to different types of ammunition, which increases operational flexibility.

- Multi-purpose application: Foudre is intended for use both in France and for international export, which expands its market prospects.

Foudre combines high firepower and mobility, which makes it an effective means of deep impact on enemy targets. This system allows France to strengthen its defense capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign technology. In the face of growing global instability and increasing demand for modern MLRS, Foudre offers a competitive and sovereign solution.

The appearance of Foudre on the international stage may change the balance of power in the segment of multiple launch rocket systems, offering an alternative to the American HIMARS. The French defense industry is counting on the successful implementation of the system in the armed forces and the expansion of export contracts.