France receives first self-propelled mortar MEPAC
At the end of 2024, the French army received the first MEPAC self-propelled mortar based on the Griffon armoured vehicle. This was reported by the French Ministry of Defence.
Here's What We Know
The first vehicle was handed over to the 8th Technical Support Regiment to familiarise the technical staff and prepare for further deliveries.
By the end of 2028, the French army is to receive 54 such mortars, of which 10 are to be delivered in 2025. A further 24 units will be produced for Belgium under the CaMo partnership, in accordance with a contract signed in December 2023.
The MEPAC is part of the Scorpion programme aimed at modernising the French armed forces, which also includes the updated Leclerc tank, Jaguar and Griffon armoured vehicles.
Griffon VBMR. Illustration: Gerhard Heiming
The self-propelled mortar is equipped with a 120 mm rifled semi-automatic mortar 2R2M. It is capable of firing conventional mines at a range of up to 8.14 km, active-reactive mines at a range of up to 12.85 km, and guided active-reactive PERM mines at a range of up to 17 km. The ammunition is 32 rounds, and an experienced crew can fire up to 12 rounds in 90 seconds.
The MEPAC weighs 24.5 tonnes and has a crew of 4 soldiers. The vehicle is designed to support tactical groups on the battlefield due to its high mobility, durability and protection. The mortars are produced by a consortium that includes KNDS France, Thales and Arquus.
Source: Ministry of Defence
