France launches development of new stealth combat drone

• This new UCAV project builds on the successes of the nEUROn program.
• The forthcoming UCAV is poised to introduce a substantial technological leap.
• Over 170 test flights have been conducted to date.

The French Ministry of the Armed Forces has recently revealed plans for the development of an innovative unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that is expected to complement the capabilities of the Rafale F5 fighter jet post-2030. This significant announcement was made by Sébastien Lecornu, Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, during a special ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the French Strategic Air Forces (FAS) at the Saint-Dizier air base.

The event, graced by the presence of key figures in the French defence sector, including General Jérôme Bellanger, Chief of Staff of the French Air and Space Force, and Éric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, marked an important milestone for the country's defence capabilities.

The forthcoming UCAV is poised to introduce a substantial technological leap and elevate the operational capacities of the French Air Force by 2033. Engineered to work seamlessly with the Rafale F5 fighter jet, this advanced UCAV will integrate cutting-edge stealth technology, autonomous control systems with human oversight, and versatile payload options. Its primary aim is to strengthen collaborative combat operations and adeptly adapt to evolving threats in the future.

In his address, Éric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, underscored the pivotal role of this project: "The development of this state-of-the-art stealth combat drone is set to bolster the technological and operational superiority of the French Air Force by 2033. Its launch during the 60th anniversary of the Strategic Air Forces and the 90th anniversary of the Air and Space Force holds immense significance. In the intricate realm of aeronautics, the future is deeply rooted in experience, and innovation is built on a foundation of knowledge. Dassault Aviation and its partners are honoured to serve the French Armed Forces and the French Defence Procurement Agency, and we are committed to upholding their trust."

This new UCAV project builds on the successes of the nEUROn program, which marked Europe's debut in the development of a stealth UCAV demonstrator. Initiated in 2003 and managed by Dassault Aviation, the nEUROn project brought together the expertise of six European countries and achieved its first flight milestone in December 2012. Over 170 test flights have been conducted to date, successfully meeting all performance, schedule, and budgetary targets.

The development of this new UCAV aims to incorporate the valuable insights garnered from the nEUROn program, ensuring that France maintains its strategic independence and air supremacy in the coming decades. The integration of the Rafale F5 with the new UCAV is anticipated to provide a formidable defence capability for the French Air Force, reminiscent of the pivotal role played by the Mirage IV in its era.