Airbus has made a significant progress in France’s future maritime patrol aircraft programme. The company announced on 4 February 2025 that it has signed a new contract with the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) for a risk assessment and characterisation study. This work is a continuation of the architecture and feasibility studies launched at the end of 2022 and represents a critical phase in the development of the programme and preparation for production.
Airbus and Thales Partnership Accelerates Technical Work
Under the contract, Airbus will lead the technical decisions of the programme as the prime contractor and will carry out the first aerodynamic tests. It also aims to optimise the economic and industrial framework of the project in partnership with Thales. Jean-Brice Dumont, Executive Vice President and Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasised that the A321 MPA will be a “flying frigate” that will respond to the wide range of operational needs of the French Navy.
A321 MPA: France's New Generation Maritime Patrol Aircraft
The A321 MPA is being developed as a modernized version of the Airbus A321XLR for military use. Designed to meet the low- and high-intensity operational requirements of the French Navy, particularly submarine and surface warfare, the aircraft is planned to enter service between 2 and 2030, replacing the Atlantique 2040 fleet.
The A321 MPA is designed to be long-range, highly maneuverable and able to operate effectively at low altitudes. Equipped with advanced sensors and systems provided by Thales, the aircraft will have the following features:
- Latest generation radar with active antenna
- Acoustic system using passive and active sonar buoys
- Electronic and electro-optical warfare systems
- Magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) system
- Advanced self-defense systems
High Technology and Powerful Weapon Systems
The A321 MPA will also be quite advanced in terms of communication systems. Integrated with satellite communication support, the aircraft will be able to carry the necessary payloads for anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare. In this context:
- Torpedoes
- New generation anti-ship missile (FMAN)
It is planned to be equipped with weapon systems. In addition, thanks to its large cargo compartment and open architecture mission systems, it will be able to be modernized and constantly updated against new threats.
A Strategic Project for the French Defense Industry
According to Airbus, the work to be carried out under the signed contract will be completed by the end of 2026, thus making France’s maritime patrol aircraft program ready for production. The risk assessment study to be carried out will not only improve the economic and technical aspects of the program, but will also enable the first wind tunnel tests to be carried out.
The A2024 MPA, exhibited at the Euronaval 321 Fair in Paris, is seen as one of the most important steps taken to increase France's maritime security. This project, carried out in partnership with Airbus and Thales, is also of great strategic importance for the development of the European defense industry.
