French startup Harmattan AI unveils IRIFI autonomous strike drone with 2,000 km range
French defense startup Harmattan AI has unveiled IRIFI, an autonomous long-range loitering one-way attack drone system capable of striking targets up to 2,000 km away without satellite navigation or human control during flight. The company announced the system on 6 October, marking its entry into the deep-strike loitering munition market.
French drone maker Sol.One establishes joint venture with DGVK Enterprises to manufacture drones in India
French drone manufacturer Sol.One formed a joint venture with Indian firm DGVK Enterprises to build Sol.One's full range of drones in India, according to Milmag and sUAS News. The partnership, named DG Sol.One, aims to serve both domestic Indian requirements and export markets. Sol.One produces small tactical drones for reconnaissance and loitering munition roles.
Jeumont Electric to supply three complete electric propulsion systems for Poland's A26 submarines under Orka programme
French firm Jeumont Electric will deliver three low-signature electric propulsion systems for the Polish Navy's A26 submarines under the Orka programme. The systems are designed to minimize acoustic and electromagnetic signatures.
France orders several hundred more MX-10 DAMOCLES kamikaze drones, Luxembourg signs first export deal worth €1.6 million
France has activated an optional tranche of its MX-10 DAMOCLES contract with KNDS France and Delair, ordering several hundred additional quadcopter loitering munitions. Luxembourg became the first export customer, signing a contract worth just over €1.6 million for an initial capability.
French Air Force chief warns 184 combat aircraft insufficient, fleet operating 15% above planned capacity
France has 184 combat aircraft and the Air and Space Force is already operating beyond planned capacity, General Jérôme Bellanger told a parliamentary hearing. He warned the current fleet is insufficient to maintain nuclear deterrence, protect national airspace and prepare for high-intensity warfare. French fighter aircraft are being used more than 15% above planned operational levels.
Why it matters: France is running its fighter fleet at 115% tempo while planning to give Rafales to Ukraine — a combination that does not add up without new airframes or a smaller mission set.