Thales and ArianeGroup have conducted the maiden test firing of a tactical ballistic missile being developed as a potential domestic replacement for France’s aging multiple launch rocket system (MLRS).
The FLP-T 150 ballistic munition incorporates propulsion, guidance, and control technologies derived from ballistic missile systems and is capable of striking targets at ranges of up to 150 kilometers (93 miles).
Flying at supersonic speeds, the rocket can maneuver during both powered and terminal phases, making it difficult to intercept.
“With its apogees reaching several tens of kilometers, its largely supersonic speeds, and the trajectory and maneuvering constraints during both the powered and terminal phases, the FLP-t 150 rocket requires technologies derived from our expertise in ballistic systems,” director of Defense Programs at ArianeGroup, Vincent Pery, explained.
“It is within this technological continuity that ArianeGroup brings its unique European expertise to the service of sovereign defence.”
X-Fire Launcher
Paris-headquartered ArianeGroup is responsible for the munition’s propulsion and guidance systems, while Thales oversees the overall system, including the ground launcher, fire control, and launch system.
The versatile X-Fire launcher is highly mobile and interoperable with other ballistic munitions, while its rapid deployment capability makes it suitable for current operational requirements. Demonstration firings from the X-Fire are scheduled by the end of May.
“This firing marks a decisive milestone for long-range land strikes and is the result of collaborative work between Thales and ArianeGroup,” executive vice president of Land and Air Systems at Thales, Hervé Dammann, said.
“The key differentiators of our joint offering are the reliability of the solution and our ability to deliver quickly and to ramp up production. In a high-intensity context, the sovereign, versatile, and resilient X-Fire launcher represents a clear asset for the armed forces.”
Domestic Replacement Program
The system is one of two candidates under consideration to replace France’s Lance-Roquettes Unitaires (LRU), alongside the THUNDART system developed by Safran and MBDA.
A modified version of the M270 MLRS, only two LRU systems remain in service with the French Army, and they are expected to retire in 2027.
France has allocated 600 million euros ($676 million) for the rocket artillery program, according to Defense News. The program includes plans to procure at least 13 systems by 2030 and 26 by 2035 to equip a battalion-level force.
If development timelines slip, foreign systems could also be considered.
