Thales and ArianeGroup have completed the inaugural firing test of the FLP-T 150 tactical ballistic missile, a system being developed to replace France’s aging rocket artillery inventory. The missile is designed to strike targets at distances of up to 150 kilometers while leveraging propulsion, navigation, and control technologies adapted from advanced ballistic missile programs.
Operating at supersonic speeds, the FLP-T 150 is capable of maneuvering during both its powered flight segment and terminal approach, enhancing its ability to evade interception by enemy air defense systems. ArianeGroup is leading development of the missile’s propulsion and guidance components, while Thales is managing integration of the overall weapon system, including the launcher vehicle, launch architecture, and fire-control technologies.
The missile will operate from the X-Fire launcher, a highly mobile and rapidly deployable platform designed for compatibility with multiple ballistic munition types. Additional demonstration launches involving the X-Fire system are expected to take place by the end of May as part of ongoing evaluation efforts.
The FLP-T 150 is competing against the THUNDART rocket artillery solution developed by Safran and MBDA under France’s broader effort to replace the Lance-Roquettes Unitaires (LRU) systems currently operated by the French Army. Derived from the M270 MLRS platform, only two LRU launchers remain in active service and are scheduled for retirement in 2027.
According to reports, France has allocated approximately 600 million euros for the future rocket artillery program, with procurement plans targeting at least 13 systems by 2030 and 26 by 2035 to equip a battalion-sized force structure. Authorities have also indicated that foreign-made alternatives may be explored if domestic development timelines fail to meet operational deadlines.
