Airbus and Naval Group to modernise French Navy's communications system based on Ukrainian experience

Airbus Defence and Space and Naval Group have been awarded a €480 million contract to upgrade the French Navy's RIFAN 3 communications network. The upgrade will improve security and integrate high-speed systems for networked warfare.

Here's What We Know

The contract covers more than 80 French Navy vessels, including the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, amphibious ships, frigates and submarines. The new network is scheduled to be implemented in 2028-2032.

RIFAN 3 will improve communication between ships, introduce IP telephony, enhance cybersecurity and adapt communications to different combat scenarios. The system is expected to be more resistant to electronic warfare, given the experience of the war in Ukraine, where active jamming has become one of the key threats.

The contract covers a 10-year period, including development and testing between 2026 and 2030, as well as further deployment and maintenance of the network.

Source: Defence News