France successfully tests new 150 km range missile system

French defence firms Thales Group and ArianeGroup have successfully tested a new domestically developed long-range missile system, marking a significant step in France’s efforts to strengthen its defence autonomy.

The companies announced on May 12 that the ground-based FLP-t 150 missile system—capable of striking targets at a range of over 150 kilometres — was successfully tested on May 5 at a military range on Levant Island in the Mediterranean Sea.

The system was developed at the request of the French Ministry of Defence and represents the first domestically produced system of its kind for the French armed forces. The project is part of a broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign systems, particularly the U.S.-made M270 multiple launch rocket systems.

In an official statement, Thales Group said: “The test confirmed the validity of the design solutions, technologies, and operational characteristics of the FLP-t 150 ballistic munition, whose range exceeds 150 km. It highlights the high potential of the munition and ensures high guidance accuracy, including in jamming conditions.”

The companies emphasised that the FLP-t 150 is entirely French-made, with industrial participation spanning seven cities across the country, underscoring the national scope of the program.

By Tamilla Hasanova