PARIS, — March 26, 2026 : France has successfully conducted a new firing test of the Akeron LP missile at the Île du Levant test site, operated by DGA Essais de Missiles, as part of the ongoing Missile Air-Sol Tactique Futur (MAST-F) programme aimed at strengthening future air-to-ground strike capabilities.
The test, carried out on March 24, 2026, forms a key step in validating the performance and operational architecture of the next-generation missile system being developed for the French armed forces.
Test Execution and System Validation
The firing involved a prototype Akeron LP missile equipped with onboard measurement instruments designed to collect detailed performance data throughout the flight. The missile was launched from a ground-based installation against a sea-borne target, allowing engineers to evaluate multiple critical functional chains under controlled conditions.
During the trial, two major capabilities were successfully demonstrated. The missile’s laser-guided targeting system validated its ability to accurately engage a maritime surface target. At the same time, the two-way radio frequency datalink between the missile and its launcher was tested, confirming a stable and high-speed communication link.
Both systems were actively used throughout the flight, enabling real-time interaction and confirming man-in-the-loop operational capability under representative conditions. The collected telemetry is expected to support further refinement of the system.
Programme Management and Industrial Cooperation
The Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR), which manages the MAST-F programme on behalf of France, described the test as a significant technical milestone. The development effort brings together multiple stakeholders, including the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and European missile manufacturer MBDA.
The programme is led by France, with OCCAR coordinating acquisition and development activities. The collaboration reflects a broader European approach to advanced missile system development.
Technical Characteristics of Akeron LP
The Akeron LP is a fifth-generation, long-range, multi-role guided missile developed by MBDA. It is designed to operate in complex battlefield environments with a high degree of precision and flexibility.
The missile weighs approximately 35 kilograms—remaining under 40 kg—and measures around 1.7 to 1.8 metres in length within its tactical canister, with a diameter of 150 mm. It is equipped with a multi-effect, multipurpose warhead featuring selectable modes for different target types.
Its operational range exceeds 8 kilometres and can extend up to 20 kilometres when launched from aerial platforms.
Akeron LP incorporates a multi-mode guidance system that combines high-resolution infrared imaging, daylight television imaging, and semi-active laser designation. The system supports both lock-on before launch (LOBL) and lock-on after launch (LOAL) modes.
In addition, the missile features a two-way datalink enabling in-flight target updates, mission re-targeting, or mission abort. Its targeting architecture integrates artificial intelligence-based image processing to enhance target recognition and engagement accuracy. The system also supports third-party target designation, enabling networked operations across platforms.
Role Within the MAST-F Programme
The MAST-F programme is intended to deliver a networked, high-precision strike system capable of operating in contested and complex operational environments. The programme focuses on improving targeting accuracy, connectivity, and operational flexibility to support modern battlefield requirements.
Akeron LP is designed to replace the American-made AGM-114R Hellfire II missile currently in service. The new system is expected to provide improved performance against a wide range of targets, including main battle tanks, fortified infrastructure, and dispersed combat groups, while minimizing collateral damage.
Platform Integration and Operational Advantages
The missile will initially be integrated into the French Army’s Tiger attack helicopter as part of its mid-life upgrade under the Tiger Mark III programme.
One of the operational advantages of Akeron LP is its reduced weight compared to legacy systems. At approximately 35 kilograms per missile, it is around 20 percent lighter than comparable systems. When a Tiger helicopter carries a full load of eight missiles, this results in a total weight reduction of about 100 kilograms. The saved weight can be used to carry additional fuel, thereby extending the aircraft’s operational range and endurance.
Future Deployment and Adaptability
The first delivery of the MAST-F system is scheduled for 2028. Beyond the Tiger helicopter, the Akeron LP is designed for integration across multiple platforms, including light helicopters, medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles such as the Eurodrone, and ground-based systems.
The missile system will also be incorporated into training environments within the French armed forces to support operational readiness and personnel preparation.
Programme Progression
The latest firing builds on earlier milestones in the MAST-F programme. Previous tests included a ground-based firing conducted in February 2025 and a separation firing from a Tiger test-bed helicopter in March 2025.
With successive trials confirming core system functions, the programme continues to progress toward full operational capability, with further testing and integration phases expected ahead of the planned 2028 delivery timeline.
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