Thales has begun serial production of the Ground Fire air surveillance and air defense radar for the French variant of the new Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG air defense system.
The milestone follows successful factory acceptance testing at Thales’ Limours site, observed by representatives of France’s arms procurement agency.
Eight Ground Fire radars are scheduled for delivery to the French armed forces from 2026, replacing the Arabel radar currently used in existing SAMP/T systems.
“The Ground Fire, designed and produced in Europe, will contribute to a robust European air defence system,” said Thales VP for Surface Radars Eric Huber.
“We have implemented all the necessary processes to accelerate industrial production, tripling radar production in our factory in Limours from 2022 to 2024 and increasing the robustness of our supply chain and partner eco-system, to ensure swift on-time delivery to contribute to air surveillance and air defence of European nations.”
To Maximize Interceptor’s Performance
The radar will maximize the performance of the next-generation ASTER 30 interceptor missiles that will equip France’s upcoming SAMP/T NG systems.
France has ordered eight SAMP/T NG units to bolster its air and missile defense against evolving threats, including short- and medium-range ballistic and hypersonic missiles.
Delivery of the first system is scheduled for 2026, with the final unit expected in 2030. Paris intends to procure four additional systems by 2035.
Ground Fire Radar
The Ground Fire is a multi-function radar providing simultaneous air surveillance and fire control support against a range of targets, including short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.
Its fully digital, multi-beam Active Electronically Scanned Array S-band sensor enables the detection, tracking, and classification of multiple targets, even in cluttered terrain or congested airspace.
Employing Doppler processing to measure a target’s radial velocity, the radar can detect small objects in difficult conditions.
With a range of up to 400 kilometers (248 miles), 360-degree azimuth coverage, and 90-degree elevation, the system offers full hemispherical protection.
Its open architecture enables seamless integration and interoperability with other European systems, strengthening the continent’s air defense network.
