France Conducts First Flight of Archange Intelligence Aircraft Developed by Dassault Aviation

In a major step towards modernising its intelligence capabilities, France’s defence procurement agency (DGA) has successfully completed the first flight of the Archange new-generation intelligence aircraft, developed in partnership with Dassault Aviation and Thales. This flight marks a milestone in France’s effort to boost its strategic surveillance and electromagnetic intelligence capabilities.

The aircraft, based on the Dassault Falcon 8X business jet, is being converted into an advanced intelligence-gathering platform under the Archange programme. These modified jets will serve the French Air and Space Force, enabling it to detect and analyse communication signals and radar emissions from a wide operational area.

According to the DGA, three Archange aircraft are planned to be delivered between now and 2030, aligning with France’s current Military Planning Law (Loi de programmation militaire 2024–2030). These jets are expected to significantly upgrade France’s ability to collect, process, and interpret critical strategic information, both in peacetime and during conflict.

At the heart of the transformation is a state-of-the-art mission system developed by Thales DMS and Thales SIX, which brings together high-performance sensors and sophisticated electronic warfare technologies. This system enables the aircraft to simultaneously detect both radar and communication signals, offering a much more comprehensive view of the electromagnetic environment compared to existing platforms.

Dassault Aviation is overseeing the structural and systems modifications needed to tailor the Falcon 8X to the French military’s intelligence mission requirements. The aircraft’s long range, high altitude capability, and reliability make it ideal for such a demanding role.

In addition to the aircraft themselves, the Archange programme includes a complete training and support infrastructure. This will include dedicated ground facilities and long-term maintenance services, ensuring the operational availability and readiness of the new fleet.

The DGA praised the collaborative effort, stating:

“This first flight is the result of several years of collaboration between leading industrial partners and the DGA. It demonstrates a collective commitment to strengthening France’s defence capabilities, its decision-making sovereignty, and the operational superiority of its armed forces.”

With the Archange programme moving ahead, France is reinforcing its strategic intelligence edge in an increasingly complex global security environment. The new aircraft will not only enhance its ability to monitor threats and support military operations, but also serve as a key asset in preserving national and allied security interests.