French Navy tests drone munition

In April 2025, the French Navy tested a teleoperated naval munition, known as a "kamikaze" drone, against a disarmed barge. The test aimed to explore new military strategies influenced by the war in Ukraine.

Drone is a modified motorboat

The tested munition, called MNTO, was a basic device: a motorboat fitted with an explosive charge. It was not an advanced autonomous system but a rudimentary platform for testing the concept.

Internal development bypasses industry

The French Ministry of the Armed Forces chose to develop the technology internally, using the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) instead of relying on private industry, which is typical for such projects.

Project named SMOKERS

The internal project, named SMOKERS, focuses on creating a maritime kamikaze system. It aims to combine existing technologies with in-house production to fill gaps in military capabilities.

Tested in anti-drone exercise

Three prototypes of SMOKERS were tested during the Wildfire anti-drone exercise in the Mediterranean. The MNTO performed well, leading to the next phase of development, which includes a 36 million euro contract.

Scaling up with CERDAN

The Reference Expert Center for Drones and Naval Autonomous Systems (CERDAN) will oversee the transition from prototype to operational use. The DGA will later hand over production to an industrial partner.

Technical specifications of the drone

The SMOKERS MNTO weighs 500 kg, is five meters long, and can travel at 40 knots. It has satellite communication systems and optronic sensors, allowing it to operate autonomously for over 50 nautical miles.