Breaking news
Breaking News - In Detail: Official List Weapons & Military Vehicles Delivered by France to Ukraine.
Paris, France, February 17, 2023 – The French government has officially disclosed the extensive range of military assistance, including weapons and combat vehicles, it has furnished to Ukraine in response to the Russian invasion that commenced on February 24, 2022. This revelation marks a significant insight into the breadth of support aimed at bolstering Ukrainian defense capabilities against ongoing Russian aggression.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
France unveils list of weapons and combat vehicles delivered to Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion of the country. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
The disclosed inventory includes a variety of key military hardware, underscoring France's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and defense. High-profile systems such as anti-aircraft batteries, armored vehicles, and advanced artillery units headline the list, demonstrating a robust effort to enhance Ukraine's military response capabilities.
In addition to these critical assets, France has also supplied a multitude of individual gear pieces, which include optical and communication systems, further augmenting the tactical effectiveness of Ukrainian forces. This support extends to nautical and medical equipment, highlighting a comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse needs of Ukraine's armed forces amidst the conflict.
The French Ministry of Defense stated, "Our support for Ukraine is unwavering and will continue to be part of our commitment to uphold international law and sovereignty. The range of equipment provided reflects our dedication to ensuring Ukraine has the necessary means to defend itself."
This announcement comes at a time when international support for Ukraine remains crucial in its resistance against ongoing Russian military operations. France's transparency in its aid efforts underscores the global stance against aggression and the importance of collective defense initiatives.
Experts note that the inclusion of nautical and medical resources, along with individual soldier equipment, indicates a strategic approach to support not just combat operations but also to sustain the well-being and operational readiness of Ukrainian troops. This multi-faceted support package from France illustrates the depth of international cooperation with Ukraine, aiming for a resilient defense posture against the challenges posed by the conflict.
As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, the support from France and other allied nations will be pivotal in shaping the conflict's outcome. The international community watches closely, with hopes for a resolution that restores peace and sovereignty to the region.
France has delivered to Ukraine, one SAMP-T, the latest generation of air defense missile system. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
SAMP-T Air Defense System (Delivery NBR: 1)
The SAMP-T system, featuring the ASTER 30 missile, represents a critical component of modern air defense, capable of intercepting threats at ranges up to 120 kilometers and altitudes of up to 20 kilometers. The system's radar can track and engage multiple targets simultaneously, offering a 360-degree defense capability. This flexibility allows it to protect against a wide range of air threats, including aircraft, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles, making it an integral part of national and expeditionary air defense networks.
Crotale NG Air Defense System (Delivery NBR: 2)
Crotale NG is a highly mobile, short-to-medium range air defense system, capable of engaging targets up to 15 kilometers away and at altitudes up to 5,000 meters. Its radar system boasts rapid target acquisition and tracking capabilities, ensuring high responsiveness to aerial threats. The system's versatility and ease of integration into existing defense networks make it suitable for protecting fixed sites and mobile units against air attacks.
Mistral Anti-Air Systems (Delivery NBR: 5)
The Mistral missile system is a man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS) designed for short-range engagements, capable of hitting targets up to 6 kilometers away and at altitudes up to 3,000 meters. Its infrared guidance system allows for fire-and-forget capability, making it highly effective against low-flying aircraft and helicopters. The portability and ease of operation of the Mistral make it ideal for rapid deployment in various operational contexts.
GM 200 Radar (Delivery NBR: 1)
The GM 200 radar is a multi-mission radar system with a detection range of up to 250 kilometers, capable of tracking a wide array of air threats, including advanced fighter jets and small, low-flying targets. Its mobility allows for quick deployment and redeployment, providing flexible support for air defense operations and enhancing situational awareness across the battlefield.
Scalp Air-to-Ground Missiles (Delivery NBR: 100)
The Scalp cruise missile, known for its stealth and precision, has a range exceeding 250 kilometers, allowing it to engage strategic targets deep behind enemy lines. Equipped with a powerful conventional warhead, the Scalp can penetrate hardened targets before detonation, maximizing damage and disrupting enemy operations without the need for direct air support.
A2SM Bombs (Delivery NBR: Several hundred)
The A2SM (Armement Air-Sol Modulaire) is a modular air-to-ground munition, adaptable for a range of mission profiles with different guidance kits, including GPS and laser guidance, enabling precision strikes against fixed and moving targets. With a weight of around 1,000 kilograms and various warhead options, these bombs offer flexibility and destructive power for tactical and strategic bombing missions.
CAESAR Howitzers (Delivery NBR: 30)
The CAESAR 155mm self-propelled howitzer combines mobility, range, and firepower, with an operational range of up to 40 kilometers using extended-range ammunition. Mounted on a 6x6 truck chassis, it offers high mobility across varied terrains, rapid deployment, and the ability to conduct shoot-and-scoot operations, minimizing vulnerability to counter-battery fire.
TRF1 Cannons (Delivery NBR: 6)
The TRF1 is a towed 155mm cannon with a maximum range of approximately 30 kilometers when firing extended-range munitions. Its high accuracy and powerful ballistic performance make it suitable for delivering effective fire support and interdiction at significant distances, supporting ground forces in offensive and defensive operations.
LRU (M270) Rocket Launcher Systems (Delivery NBR: 4)
The LRU (M270) multiple rocket launcher system can unleash devastating barrages of rockets over distances up to 70 kilometers, depending on the ammunition type. Its capability to rapidly cover large areas with high-explosive or submunition warheads makes it particularly effective against enemy concentrations, defensive positions, and area targets, offering a significant force multiplier for artillery units.
AMX-10RC Reconnaissance Vehicles (Delivery NBR: 30)
The AMX-10RC is a wheeled armored vehicle equipped with a 105mm gun, capable of engaging targets up to 2,000 meters away. Its all-terrain mobility, combined with a high level of armor protection against small arms and shell splinters, makes it well-suited for reconnaissance missions, light strike tasks, and providing fire support for infantry units. The AMX-10RC version delivered to Ukraine is the AMX-10RCR, a modernized variant of the AMX-10RC.
VAB Armored Vehicles (Delivery NBR: 250)
The VAB 4x4 armored personnel carrier is designed to transport troops while offering protection against small arms fire and shell splinters. It can be configured for various roles, including command, medical evacuation, and logistics, with a payload capacity of up to 2 tons and a top speed of approximately 90 km/h, ensuring versatile operational support.
VLTT P4 Vehicles (Delivery NBR: 120)
The VLTT P4 is a light, all-terrain vehicle, offering high mobility and reliability for personnel transport, reconnaissance, and logistic support. With seating for up to 4 personnel, a payload capacity of around 500 kilograms, and capable of speeds up to 100 km/h, the P4 is adaptable to a wide range of military and support roles in diverse environments.
MILAN Anti-Tank Missile System (Delivery NBR: 17)
The MILAN is a portable anti-tank missile system with a maximum effective range of 2,000 meters, capable of penetrating over 500mm of rolled homogeneous armor. Its wire-guided system allows operators to engage and correct the missile's flight path towards static or moving targets, providing a critical capability against enemy armored threats.
Anti-Tank Rockets and Mines (Delivery NBR: several thousands)
France's provision of Javelin anti-tank missiles and HPD2A2 anti-tank mines enhances Ukraine's defensive capabilities with effective means to deter and neutralize enemy armored vehicles. The rockets, with ranges varying by type, offer portable solutions for infantry units, while the mines ensure secure perimeters through lethal obstacles capable of defeating even heavily armored vehicles.
AA-52 7.62mm Machine Gun (Delivery NBR: Non-Disclosed)
The AA-52 7.62mm machine gun is a French-designed general-purpose machine gun (GPMG) that has been widely used by the French military and other countries. Known for its reliability and versatility, the AA-52 can be used in a light role with a bipod or mounted on vehicles and aircraft for heavier support. With a rate of fire of around 900 rounds per minute and effective range up to 1,200 meters, the AA-52 offers significant firepower for infantry units. Its design allows for quick barrel changes, facilitating sustained fire in prolonged engagements.
ANF-1 General-Purpose Machine Guns (Delivery NBR: Non-Disclosed)
The ANF-1 is an updated version of the AA-52, designed to offer improved ergonomics and reliability. It retains the 7.62mm caliber and general operating principles of its predecessor but features enhancements such as a redesigned feed mechanism and barrel, reducing weight and improving heat dissipation. With similar specifications, including a rate of fire of 900 rounds per minute and an effective engagement range, the ANF-1 continues to serve as a versatile support weapon for French and allied forces, adaptable for a wide range of military operations.
FN MAG General-Purpose Machine Guns (Delivery NBR: Non-Disclosed)
The FN MAG is a Belgian-designed 7.62mm general-purpose machine gun, renowned for its reliability, durability, and versatility across the world's militaries. Capable of a rate of fire of up to 1,000 rounds per minute and effective ranges exceeding 800 meters, the FN MAG can be employed in both light (bipod-mounted) and heavy (tripod or vehicle-mounted) roles. Its design features include an air-cooled barrel and gas-operated feeding mechanism, allowing for rapid barrel changes and consistent performance in diverse and demanding combat situations.
Defense News February 2024