The Defense Post
Thales has begun serial production of the Ground Fire air surveillance and air defense radar for the French variant of the new Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG air defense system.
The milestone follows successful factory acceptance testing at Thales’ Limours site, observed by representatives of France’s arms procurement agency.
Eight Ground Fire radars are scheduled for delivery to the French armed forces from 2026, replacing the Arabel radar currently used in existing SAMP/T systems.
“The Ground Fire, designed and produced in Europe, will contribute to a robust European air defence system,” said Thales VP for Surface Radars Eric Huber.
“We have implemented all the necessary processes to accelerate industrial production, tripling radar production in our factory in Limours from 2022 to 2024 and increasing the robustness of our supply chain and partner eco-system, to ensure swift on-time delivery to contribute to air surveillance and air defence of European nations.”
