France Ramps Up Support for Ukraine with Delivery of 600 Precision-Guided AASM Bombs in 2024.

In January 2024, France unveiled its plan to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities by committing to supply several hundred AASM (In French Armement Air-Sol Modulaire - Air-Ground Modular Armament) HAMMER precision-guided munitions, with an ongoing delivery schedule of 50 units each month throughout the year. By March 12, 2024, the French Defense Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, further detailed that approximately 600 AASM bombs would be provided to Ukraine in 2024.
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Safran's AASM precision-guided munition was showcased at the Paris Air Show 2015. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)

The first reported use of the AASM ((In French Armement Air-Sol Modulaire - Air-Ground Modular Armament) in Ukraine occurred on 5th March 2024, marking a significant milestone in the operational deployment of these advanced munitions in the ongoing conflict. This delivery and subsequent use of the AASM bombs are part of France's broader support to Ukraine, aimed at enhancing its military capabilities against adversarial forces.

The development of the AASM bomb began in the late 1990s, with the first order placed by the French DGA (Direction Générale de l'Armement) in 2000. It experienced a two-year delay in development but eventually entered into service and began deliveries in 2007. The AASM made its combat debut in 2008 during the War in Afghanistan, where it was used by a Rafale fighter to support ground troops.

The French AASM (Armement Air-Sol Modulaire), also known as HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range), is a sophisticated air-to-ground weapon developed by Safran Electronics & Defense. France has delivered several hundred AASM guided bombs to Ukraine as part of military assistance, which includes both SCALP-EG missiles and AASM bombs. The AASM system is notable for its precision and versatility, enabling it to support a wide range of mission types and bomb sizes, including 125, 250, 500, and 1,000 kg versions.

The AASM's design integrates a guidance kit and propulsion system, making it capable of engaging targets with high precision over long distances. The guidance system combines GPS, inertial navigation, and in some versions, laser or infrared homing, to achieve remarkable accuracy. The incorporation of a rocket booster and enlarged fins in the range extension kit allows the munition to engage targets from a considerable distance, further enhancing its operational flexibility.

The cost of the AASM program, including the development and delivery of 2,348 kits, is estimated at €846 million, with a per-weapon cost of around $300,000. This cost is significantly higher than comparable American JDAM kits, mainly due to lower production volumes. However, economies of scale could potentially lower the cost of the French munition if larger contracts are signed.

Operational use of the AASM has demonstrated its effectiveness in various combat scenarios, including in Afghanistan and Libya, where it was employed by French Rafale fighters. The weapon's ability to be launched from off-axis angles and its precision-guided capabilities have been particularly highlighted in these conflicts. Now, with Ukraine added to its list of operators, the AASM's role in modern air-to-ground warfare continues to expand.

France's decision to provide AASM bombs to Ukraine is part of a broader commitment to support the country amidst its conflict. The delivery of these advanced munitions aims to enhance Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities and operational effectiveness in complex combat scenarios.

Defense News March 2024