LRU replacement causes temporary capability gap

General Jacques de Montgros, the Chief of Staff of the Army (CEMAT), stated during a hearing before the National Assembly on October 14 that replacing the Single Rocket Launchers (LRU) will result in a temporary reduction in military capability between 2027 and 2030. This is due to the aging of the nine remaining LRU systems at the 1st Artillery Regiment (RA), which are nearing their operational limit.

New system chosen for LRU replacement

The FLP-T (Long-Range Strike / Land) program has selected the Thundart system, developed by MBDA and Safran, as the chosen replacement for the LRU. This system is considered a sovereign solution, meaning it is developed and produced domestically rather than relying on foreign suppliers.

Importance of coordination in new system deployment

General de Montgros stressed that the delivery schedule for the new launcher cannot be delayed and that coordination between the launcher and its ammunition is essential. A lack of synchronization could result in launchers being deployed without the necessary ammunition, rendering them ineffective.

Future acquisition goals for LRU NG

The Army aims to eventually field two battalions of the next-generation LRU (LRU NG), which would consist of twenty-six launchers. Although a batch of thirteen launchers has already been initiated, the decision to proceed with this goal has not yet been formally confirmed.

Long-term military programming plans

According to the updated 2024-30 Military Programming Act, the Army plans to be equipped with twenty-six long-range strike systems by 2030, with the number potentially increasing to fifty-two units by 2035. General de Montgros described the capability gap as a "temporary reduction" rather than a more severe disruption.

New capabilities being tested

The Army is also creating a battery equipped with long-range teleoperated munitions (MTO) within the 1st RA. However, the specific model of MTO to be acquired has not been disclosed. Meanwhile, the Air and Space Force is preparing to equip its first bomber squadron with DÉLUGE, a long-range missile from MBDA with a range exceeding the needs of the army corps.