France develops long-range Chorus strike drone

France is developing a new long-range strike drone, known as Chorus, as part of efforts to strengthen its defence industrial base and maintain readiness for potential large-scale production.

The project is being led by the French Ministry of Defence in collaboration with Turgis Gaillard and Renault, a representative of the Directorate General of Armaments said during a Senate hearing, Caliber.Az reports via French media. 

Patrick Payou of the DGA said the drone is expected to have a range of up to 3,000 kilometres, a payload capacity of around 500 kilograms, and a cruising speed of approximately 400 km/h. The unit cost is estimated at about €100,000.

Developers are drawing on lessons from Ukraine’s “Flamingo” cruise missile system, produced by Fire Point. While the Ukrainian system has higher performance — including a heavier warhead and greater speed — French officials say the Chorus programme is not intended for immediate large-scale production. Instead, it aims to preserve industrial capabilities and ensure that manufacturing can be rapidly scaled up if required.

The Chorus initiative is part of a broader French effort to expand advanced weapons development. This includes work on long-range remotely operated munitions, known as One Way Effectors, designed to penetrate deep into enemy territory and weaken air defence systems.

Meanwhile, Fire Point has been expanding its footprint in the European defence market. The company recently announced plans to develop a lower-cost alternative to the Patriot air defence system and is in talks with European partners.

It is also nearing completion of two new supersonic ballistic missiles, the FP-7 and FP-9, underscoring the growing pace of innovation in missile and drone technologies amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

By Sabina Mammadli