France to test its own HIMARS analogue next year

France is working on developing its own multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), which is intended to be a response to the US HIMARS. The first tests of this system are scheduled for 2026.

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The new system will be able to hit targets at a distance of up to 150 kilometres, which will exceed the capabilities of existing French rocket artillery.

The project is led by France's General Directorate of Armaments in cooperation with the country's leading defence companies - Safran, MBDA, Thales and Ariane Group. The programme is called Frappe Longue Portée Terrestre (FLP-T). Under the programme, it is planned to purchase at least 13 new MLRS by 2030, and 26 by 2035.

Funding is provided at the level of 600 million euros for the period from 2024 to 2030. The country's military leadership emphasises the need to maintain and develop its own long-range precision fire capabilities, particularly in the context of the upcoming decommissioning of LRU systems - the US M270 MLRS adapted to French needs.

At the same time, in 2024, MBDA and Safran joined forces to create a new precision-guided munition called Thundart. This 227 mm guided missile will be specially adapted for the new system and will also be able to hit targets at a range of up to 150 km. It will remain compatible with the LRU, allowing for a gradual transition to the new system without losing combat capability.

Amid the growing popularity of HIMARS and Israel's PULS, France's FLP-T aims to provide Europe with its own high-precision and independent artillery platform. Earlier in 2023, Germany's Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin announced the joint development of GMARS, and Elbit and KNDS are working together to create a European version of PULS. France is therefore keen not only to keep up but also to offer a competitive solution.

Source: Defence News