France introduces the HELMA-LP portable laser system: the weapon of the future in the assault rifle form factor

HELMA-LP Portable laser system

The French defense company CILAS has presented an innovative development, the HELMA-LP portable laser system, made in the form factor of an assault rifle. The prototype was first demonstrated at SOFINS 2025, where it aroused considerable interest among experts in the field of military technology. The new system is a lightweight version of the HELMA-P, which was successfully tested in June 2023 aboard the Horizon-class air defense frigate.

The HELMA-LP is designed to engage stationary targets at ranges from 300 to 500 meters. Unlike the more powerful HELMA-P, the new system has reduced power, making it easier and more convenient for infantry use. However, this also affects the time to hit the target: the operator needs to hold the laser on the object for five to fifteen seconds, and the maximum continuous operation time of the system is 60 seconds.

The main advantage of the HELMA-LP is its compactness and mobility. The system can be easily carried by one person, making it ideal for use in the field. It is especially effective against small stationary objects such as drones, electronics, or lightweight structures.

However, the reduction in power compared to HELMA-P imposes certain limitations. A longer guidance time requires high operator accuracy and stability, which can be difficult in an active combat environment. In addition, the system is not yet designed to hit moving targets, which limits its versatility.

The first tests of the HELMA-LP showed its potential as an innovative solution for modern warfare. Such a system is especially relevant in the context of the growing threat from drones, which are becoming more common on the battlefield. CILAS continues to work on improving the system's performance, including increasing power and reducing target engagement time.

HELMA-LP is another step in the development of laser weapons, which is gradually becoming a reality. France is demonstrating leadership in this field by offering advanced technologies to the armed forces. The success of HELMA-LP may become an impetus for the development of similar systems by other countries, which will lead to a new arms race in the field of energy weapons.

Airbus unveils prototype NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multipurpose helicopter for the French Army

NH90 Caïman Standard 2

Airbus has unveiled a prototype of the NH90 Caïman Standard 2 multirole helicopter at the SOFINS 2025 International Special Operations Exhibition in Martigny-sur-Mer. The helicopter is designed for the French army and is part of Paris' efforts to integrate next-generation capabilities into units designed for evacuation, fire support and other rapid deployment tasks requiring low visibility.

Key Features of NH90 Caïman Standard 2

The NH90 Caïman Standard 2 is an improved version of the previous generation of Caïman Standard 1 helicopters. The new model includes components specifically designed for covert operations. Among them:

- Infrared camera with laser pointer and target designator (EOS410 from Safran);

- Improved radio communications for joint and coalition operations;

- New types of weapons.

The NH90 Caïman Standard 2 helicopter can be equipped with door-mounted machine guns, multi-functional rockets, rocket blocks and auxiliary cannons. It has a length of 20 meters, a rotor diameter of 16 meters and an external load capacity of 4,200 kilograms. The cabin can accommodate up to 20 soldiers or 10 stretchers for medical evacuation.

The NH90 Cayman Standard 2 is equipped with two turboshaft engines with up to 2,400 horsepower each. The helicopter has a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour, a flight range of 1,600 kilometers, and an operating altitude of 3,500 meters.

Airbus has signed a contract for the production of 18 NH90 Caïman Standard 2 helicopters for the 4th Special Forces Regiment of the French Army in Pai. Helicopter assembly has already begun at the Marignan facility, and deliveries are scheduled for the period from 2026 to 2029. After delivery, the new helicopters will replace the aging H215M Cougar and H225M Caracal models, also manufactured by Airbus.

The NH90 Cayman Standard 2 will play an important role in the operational capabilities of the French special forces, providing them with greater flexibility and effectiveness in difficult combat conditions.