French Army to strengthen anti-drone capabilities with new light armored vehicle variant by 2028.

According to information published by KNDS France on June 18, 2025, the French Army has confirmed the integration of a new variant of the Serval light armored vehicle into its future force structure. Designated Serval C-UAV (or LAD, Lutte Anti-Drone), this advanced platform has been specifically developed to counter the growing threat of drones on modern battlefields. The vehicle is set to enter service from 2028 under the French Light Tactical Polyvalent Vehicle (VLTP) program, with a total of 24 units ordered and a target of 48 as outlined by the Military Programming Law (LPM).
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The Serval LAD is equipped with the ARX30 remotely operated turret, which houses the 30M781 MPG gun, a variant derived from the 30 mm cannon used on the Tigre attack helicopter. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Serval C-UAV stands out for its comprehensive counter-UAV suite, anchored by the ARX30 remotely operated turret from KNDS France. This turret integrates the 30M781 MPG gun, derived from the 30 mm cannon of the Tigre attack helicopter, which delivers high firepower and a superior rate of fire. The ARX30 turret provides 360° coverage and is particularly effective in neutralizing small drones, infantry groups, and lightly armored vehicles. With its high elevation range and fast traverse, it is optimized for engaging low, fast-moving aerial threats, especially in urban or complex terrain.

A cornerstone of this system is the introduction of a 30 mm programmable Airburst munition currently under development. This ammunition enhances the effectiveness of the ARX30 against mini and micro UAVs by detonating at precise distances, creating a fragmentation cloud lethal to small drones. The turret and gun system are coupled with an integrated 3D radar and omnidirectional radiofrequency (RF) detection suite, enabling early threat detection, precise target tracking, and engagement from the same platform. These features make the Serval C-UAV a unique sensor-to-shooter capability within the SCORPION program.

In comparison, other existing French counter-UAV solutions, such as the Mistral missile system and DSA (Défense Sol-Air) modules, serve complementary roles. The Mistral, a short-range infrared-guided missile with a passive seeker, excels in targeting rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft and larger drones at ranges up to 6 km. It is typically deployed on systems like ATLAS RC or MPCV and is effective against fast-flying aerial threats, but lacks the rapid-fire and close-in engagement capability required to counter swarm drone tactics. Meanwhile, DSA platforms rely primarily on VSHORAD assets such as MANPADS or autocannons like the 20 mm GIAT gun, offering point defense but limited by slower engagement sequences and lower detection integration. The Serval C-UAV, by contrast, offers an integrated, high-speed detection-to-engagement chain with programmable munitions, positioning it as a decisive effector for immediate drone neutralization in layered defense networks.

The modular design of the Serval family, already comprising 23 different variants, underlines KNDS France’s ability to adapt platforms to specific mission requirements. The inclusion of a C-UAV variant reflects the evolving threat landscape and lessons drawn from high-intensity conflicts such as the war in Ukraine, where drone swarms and loitering munitions have posed significant challenges.

The ARX30 also offers resilience in contested electromagnetic environments, using NATO-standard 1A/1W Super Safe ammunition, ensuring dependable operation during electronic warfare. As a versatile weapon system, it replaces both traditional 12.7 mm machine guns and 40 mm grenade launchers, and is adaptable across a wide spectrum of platforms, including robotic systems and secondary tank armament configurations. With the Serval C-UAV, the French Army gains a powerful effector to protect its tactical maneuvers and static installations. The system provides a scalable and future-proof solution, integrating detection, tracking, and destruction into one compact vehicle-based platform.