France Upgrades Navy’s Defense Systems to Counter Modern Aerial and Surface Threats.

According to information published by the French MoD on January 28, 2025, the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) is reinforcing the self-defense capabilities of the French Navy through two key programs: the procurement of the SIMBAD-RC naval air defense system from MBDA France and the development of a 40mm anti-aircraft munition in collaboration with KNDS France and Thales LAS. These initiatives aim to enhance the protection of naval units against modern airborne and surface threats.
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Jacques Chevallier replenishment vessel's SIMBAD-RC anti-air self defence system. (Picture source: French MoD)

The SIMBAD-RC is a remotely-operated short-range air defense system designed to deploy Mistral 3 infrared-guided missiles. It offers rapid reaction capabilities against a range of threats, including anti-ship missiles, aircraft, helicopters, drones, and asymmetric surface attacks such as fast attack craft and suicide boats. Unlike traditional manually-operated launchers, this system allows for remote engagement, reducing crew exposure to enemy fire. It can function autonomously or be fully integrated into a ship’s combat management system, adapting to various naval architectures.

MBDA has also introduced enhanced variants of the system, increasing the number of ready-to-fire missiles to improve engagement capacity against multiple threats. This evolution addresses the growing need for improved reaction times and higher firepower, especially in environments where naval forces must counter swarming drone tactics and high-speed missile threats.

At the same time, the DGA has initiated the development of a new 40mm anti-aircraft munition, tailored for the RAPIDFire naval gun system. This system integrates the 40mm Case Telescoped Armament System (CTAS), developed by CTA International, a joint venture between KNDS France and BAE Systems. Unlike traditional naval cannons, the telescoped ammunition design allows for a higher rate of fire and increased ammunition storage capacity, making it particularly effective in engaging multiple airborne and surface threats.

The new munition is specifically engineered for close-in self-defense, targeting drones, loitering munitions, low-flying aircraft, anti-ship missiles, and small fast-moving naval threats. A key feature is its airburst capability, enabling the round to detonate at an optimal distance, maximizing its effectiveness against aerial targets. Integrated with advanced fire control systems, the A3B (Anti-Aerial AirBurst) round enhances precision and extends effective engagement ranges, providing an efficient, cost-effective alternative to missile-based close-in defense.

By introducing these advanced missile and artillery systems, France is ensuring that its naval forces remain capable of countering modern maritime threats, including the increasing use of autonomous drones, high-speed missile systems, and asymmetric surface attacks. The SIMBAD-RC enhances the reaction speed and defense capabilities of smaller vessels, while the RAPIDFire system, with its high-volume firepower and programmable ammunition, provides an additional layer of protection for surface combatants.