French Army Deploys Advanced Griffon MEPAC 120mm Mobile Mortar System

The French Army has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its artillery capabilities with the delivery of its first Griffon MEPAC (Mortier Embarqué Pour l’Appui au Contact) mobile mortar system. This highly sophisticated vehicle, equipped with a 120mm semi-automatic mortar, represents the next generation of indirect fire support for the French armed forces. This delivery is part of an ambitious procurement plan by the French Ministry of Armed Forces to acquire 54 such vehicles by 2028.

Planned Deliveries and Evaluation

Following the delivery of the initial Griffon MEPAC, the French Army is set to receive 10 additional units later this year. The remaining 43 systems will be supplied incrementally by the end of 2028. The initial batch will undergo rigorous technical and operational evaluations to assess its performance in real-world conditions. These evaluations will also help fine-tune tactical deployment strategies and ensure seamless integration into existing artillery regiments.

Deployment Across Artillery Regiments

Once fully operational, the Griffon MEPAC systems will be distributed across eight artillery regiments, each regiment forming a battery of six vehicles. These vehicles will significantly enhance the firepower and flexibility of the French Army’s artillery units, enabling rapid and accurate fire support in dynamic battlefield environments.

Notably, France is not the only nation to invest in this cutting-edge system. The Belgian Army has also placed an order for 24 Griffon MEPAC vehicles, signaling international confidence in its advanced capabilities.

Key Features of the Griffon MEPAC

The Griffon MEPAC is a six-wheeled armoured vehicle designed for mobility, protection, and versatility. Weighing 24.5 tonnes, it is powered by a robust 400-horsepower six-cylinder Renault Trucks turbodiesel engine, providing the durability needed for challenging terrains and battlefield scenarios.

At its core lies the 120mm 2R2M mortar, capable of firing up to 10 rounds per minute with an effective range of 13 kilometers. Future advancements in ammunition technology are expected to extend this range to 15 kilometers. This firepower is complemented by advanced systems such as:

• ATLAS Fire Control System: For precise targeting and efficient fire coordination.
• Automatic Aiming System: Ensuring rapid and accurate positioning of the mortar.
• Thales Inertial Navigation System: Enhancing situational awareness and deployment efficiency.

For self-defence, the Griffon MEPAC is equipped with a roof-mounted remote-controlled 7.62mm machine gun, offering protection against threats during both transit and stationary operations.

Crew and Battlefield Advantages

The Griffon MEPAC is operated by a crew of four, who benefit from advanced onboard technology designed to maximize operational effectiveness. The vehicle’s enclosed design ensures crew safety, while its advanced fire control and navigation systems enable quick response times in combat scenarios.

Strategic Implications

The induction of the Griffon MEPAC into the French Army signals a major upgrade in its artillery capabilities, emphasizing precision, mobility, and versatility. As the French armed forces continue to modernize their arsenal, the Griffon MEPAC is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing battlefield support and operational flexibility.

With deliveries continuing through the decade, this system promises to bolster France’s standing as a leader in advanced military technology, while its adoption by allied nations like Belgium underscores its global appeal.