French artillery modernization underway

The French artillery is undergoing a major transformation to prepare for modern warfare, including high-intensity conflicts, the rise of drones, and increased battlefield lethality. General Frédéric Jordan, commander of the Artillery School, emphasized that the artillery will now play a deeper operational role, contributing to a broader effort to modernize the Army of the Land with the goal of having a fully operational army corps by 2030.

New long-range munitions introduced

A key part of the modernization is the introduction of new long-range teleoperated munitions called Durandal, which will be delivered to the 1st Artillery Regiment of Belfort in the second half of 2027. Medium-range teleoperated munitions (MTO-MP) are also expected to be supplied to inter-service brigades, enhancing the artillery's flexibility and reach in combat scenarios.

Expansion of drone use and VTOL systems

The French artillery is expanding its use of drones, with the 61st Artillery Regiment set to be equipped with AR3 drones before 2027, followed by AR5 drones. The plan includes up to 70 VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) systems, each capable of carrying different types of loads, which will support various military operations and logistics needs.

Air defense becomes a priority

Air defense is a key focus area, with the integration of G1X radars on V3P chassis and upgrades to the very short-range ground-to-air system PAMELA with the V3P Vampire. The 54th Artillery Regiment is currently the only ground-to-air artillery regiment, but the 17th Artillery Regiment is expected to become the second by 2027, with additional anti-drone sections planned for all ground-to-air batteries.

Depth action detachments being tested

Depth action detachments (DAP) are being tested at several regiments, including the 1st Artillery Regiment and the 35th Paratrooper Artillery Regiment. These detachments use experimental Noctua 200 drones to locate high-value targets in large areas and relay information to units tasked with destroying those targets, enhancing precision and effectiveness in combat.

Doctrinal changes and NATO integration

The modernization includes new doctrinal changes, with a published doctrine that distinguishes between generalist and specialized long-range artillery (LAD). These changes are being developed in collaboration with several military and industrial organizations, including the Future Combat Command and the Land Army Technical Section, with NATO integration also considered a key factor.

Long-range strike capability approaching

The long-range strike capability is expected to become operational by 2029-2030 with the THUNDART system developed by MBDA and Safran. By 2035, the 54th and 17th Artillery Regiments will be equipped with additional batteries, including MISTRAL 3 systems, and integrated into the 19th Artillery Brigade, enhancing their combat readiness and firepower.

Sensor upgrades and AI integration

Sensors are central to counter-battery operations, with the COBRA radar undergoing a mid-life upgrade. The GM200 MM/C radar from Thales Nederland is set to replace COBRA, with a 3D version planned. The French artillery is also exploring AI to improve information management and its role in a "kill web" system, while robotics are being tested for logistics and sensor deployment.

Future artillery planning and advanced weapons

Prospective work for artillery beyond 2040 is already underway, with a first report expected in early 2027. The French artillery is considering new weapons like the BONUS Mk2 and KATANA shell, which could extend its range beyond current capabilities. Research is also ongoing into electromagnetic and laser weapons, as well as ballistic missiles that could surpass the 500 km range by next year with the Durandal system.