French defence and cybersecurity firm Thales Group and rocket manufacturer ArianeGroup have announced the successful first test firing of the new FLP-T 150 long-range rocket launcher.
In a joint statement, the companies said; “the successful flight test confirmed the system’s design studies and demonstrated the launcher’s operational potential. The FLP-T 150 is capable of firing rockets over distances exceeding 150 kilometres (93 miles).”
The test comes as France moves to strengthen its military capabilities.
Last month, the Country unveiled plans to increase defence spending by an additional 36 billion euros ($39 billion) by 2030 under an updated military programme aimed at expanding missile and drone stockpiles.
The spending boost, despite France’s large euro zone budget deficit, reflects rising security concerns linked to the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as uncertainty surrounding U.S. support for NATO under President Donald Trump.
ArianeGroup is jointly owned by Airbus and Safran.
Reuters
