Paris: France plans to test a domestically-developed rocket artillery system by mid-2026 as an alternative to the US High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, or HIMARS, a move that could open up options for allies seeking a European capability.
The French Directorate General for Armament is looking to identify the technical solutions that will enable a demonstration firing in a year’s time, the defence-procurement agency said.
The DGA is working with a consortium of Safran and MBDA and another of Thales and ArianeGroup to develop a tactical strike capability in the 150 kilometre range.
Time is running out for France to replace its Lance-Roquettes Unitaire, a modified version of the M270 multiple launch rocket system, with the Army’s nine remaining systems set to reach the end of their service life in 2027.
Lawmakers and military brass have been pushing to develop a domestic option rather than buy abroad, in line with French policy for autonomy in defence matters.
“Service withdrawal of the LRU is approaching, and retention of the capability will be an issue at that point,”said Léo Péria-Peigné, a researcher at the Paris-based Institut Français des Relations Internationales specialising in armament capacity.
Safran and MBDA are on track for the “ambitious” DGA schedule, confirming their target for a test firing in mid-2026, they said in a joint statement. Thales and ArianeGroup didn’t comment on timing, with Thales saying the companies have been working as an integrated team for several months to offer a “pertinent solution” for the armed forces.
