France Announces “Project Épervier” to Neutralize Hard-to-Jam FPV Drones on Battlefield

France’s Defense Ministry has launched “Project Épervier” (Sparrowhawk), a call for anti-drone solutions aimed at countering fast, hard-to-jam FPV “racer” drones now common on modern battlefield, French outlet opex360 reported on October 2.

The Defense Innovation Agency (AID) is seeking systems that can detect and/or neutralize FPV drones—including fiber‑optic variants—capable of speeds above 100 km/h. Requirements need practical use: systems must defeat threats beyond a 15m protection zone, be compact enough for dismounted troops and light vehicles, and operate day and night in urban and open terrain.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Is Europe Ready for Russia’s Shahed Swarms? Mapping Air-Defense Gaps and Fixes

Sep 09, 2025 18:24

Integration with external target‑designation systems is also requested.

AID is deliberately keeping the call open to novel ideas or creative repurposing of existing tech, but asks applicants for full technical transparency about methods and algorithms. Multiple contracts may be awarded; proposals are due by 12 November, according to opex360.

Early prototypes and commercial efforts already exist: a pocket‑sized detection/mitigation device under development at the French army’s 54th Signals Regiment and Harmattan AI’s Gobi interceptor drone—an AI‑guided interceptor designed to engage incoming targets at low altitude and high speed.

Previously, it was reported that Ukrainian and French companies have signed a cooperation agreement to establish a constellation of small Earth-observation satellites that will give Ukraine sovereign access to space-based intelligence.

Support Frontline Journalism by UNITED24 Media

DONATE NOW