Navies adopt hybrid fleets with drones

Navies around the world are incorporating drones into their operations as part of "hybrid fleets" to tackle modern maritime threats. This shift is being highlighted at the Euronaval defense fair in France, which is the largest event of its kind, attracting over 700 exhibitors, many of whom are new to the drone sector.

Innovation in naval drones emphasized

Pierre-Eric Pommellet, president of Naval Group, stressed the importance of drone innovation in naval combat. He pointed out the need for advanced detection systems and artificial intelligence to improve the efficiency of processing information on the battlefield.

Modern threats include asymmetric actors

Naval threats are no longer limited to traditional enemy warships but also include non-state actors such as armed groups and militias. The Strait of Hormuz is an example, where Iran has shown the ability to disrupt maritime traffic using drones, missiles, and surveillance systems.

Ukraine war drives drone development

The war in Ukraine has accelerated the use of surface and underwater drones. Ukrainian surface drones, like the Magura, have successfully targeted Russian ships in the Black Sea, demonstrating how cost-effective drones can pose a threat to expensive naval assets.

Global naval investment is rising

Investment in naval defense is increasing globally, with the military shipbuilding market expected to reach 122 billion dollars. Attack nuclear submarine programs alone account for over 27 billion dollars, with 17 units launched or under construction between 2024 and 2025.

Euronaval amid France-Israel tensions

The Euronaval fair is occurring against the backdrop of tensions between France and Israel over Israeli companies' participation in defense fairs since the start of the war in Gaza. French authorities have imposed restrictions on Israeli companies, allowing them to participate only in air defense and missile defense-related equipment.