List of equipment of the French Army

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Modern equipment of the French Army is a list of equipment currently in service with the French Army. Figures are provided by the Ministry of Armed Forces for 2021.[1][2]

Personal equipment

Uniforms

Name Origin Type Photo Notes
Field uniforms
Camouflage Centre-Europe (CCE) File:Flag of France.svg France Combat uniform File:French soldiers.jpg
File:French Alpine Hunter with an FN Minimi.jpg
  • Standard camouflage pattern of the French Armed Forces
  • In May 2022, it was announced a new camouflage pattern, the Bariolage Multi-Environnement (BME), was being developed and that it would replace the CCE as the standard camouflage pattern. Delivery of the BME to French units expected to start in 2024
Camouflage Daguet File:Flag of France.svg France Combat uniform File:French troops in the Sahel.jpg Desert camouflage of the French Armed Forces
Camouflage Tundra File:Flag of France.svg France Combat uniform File:French Chasseur Alpin.jpg
  • Snow camouflage of the French Armed Forces
  • Typically worn by the Alpine Hunters and other mountain units
COM FST-specific camouflage File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States
Combat uniform File:13th Parachute Dragoon Regiment.jpg
File:French special forces operator armed with a SIG-553.jpg
Various uniforms seen worn by operators of the French Army Special Forces Command's units.
Helmets
Casque SPECTRA (F2) File:Flag of France.svg France Combat helmet File:Joint Patrol in Parwan DVIDS385627.jpg
  • Entered service in 1993
  • Succeeded the Modèle 1978 helmet (F1) as the standard-issue helmet
  • Replaced by the FÉLIN helmet
  • As of 2021, the SPECTRA helmet is still occasionally seen equipping some soldiers during training or parades
Casque TC F NVG V2
Casque TC 3001/3002
File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States
Combat helmet File:Operator of the 13e RDP.jpg
  • Variants of the MICH and manufactured by MSA Gallet
  • TC F NVG V2 helmets seen used by some conventional units of the French army and TC 3001/3002 (pictured) seen used by special forces operators
  • Entered service in 2009 and 2010 respectively
  • Still occasionally seen used
Ops-Core helmet File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Combat helmet File:French GCP.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units as well as by specialized conventional units such as the para commandos of the 11th Airborne Brigade's Parachute Commando Group (GCP) and the mountain commandos of the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade's Mountain Commando Group (GCM)
Casque FÉLIN
Casque balistique F3.
File:Flag of France.svg France Combat helmet File:French camouflage Daguet.jpg
File:F3 ballistic helmet.jpg
  • First delivered in 2010, the FÉLIN ballistic helmet is the SPECTRA helmet's successor. It is an integral component of the FÉLIN system.
  • The F3 helmet to be delivered from 2020 onwards and is an evolution of the FÉLIN. It will equip all army soldiers and meet the overall objective of renewing the armed forces' "small equipment" in accordance with the 2019-2025 Military Programming Law.
Ballistic vests
Gilet TIGRE File:Flag of France.svg France Bulletproof vest File:Glock 17 Gen 5 FR.jpg
  • Former standard-issue bulletproof vest of the French Armed Forces.
  • Some units still in service but mostly replaced by the SMB.
Structure Modulaire Balistique (SMB) File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Norway.svg Norway
Bulletproof vest File:Structure Modulaire Balistique.jpg
  • Standard-issue bulletproof vest of the French Armed Forces.
  • Designed by the Norwegian company NFM Group and manufactured by Plastimor, its Lorient-based French subsidiary
  • First units delivered in 2017 and 60,000 in service as of March 2022
  • 5,900 SMB V2 units, an evolution of the SMB, have been delivered as of March 2022
COM FST-specific ballistic vests File:Flag of France.svg France Bulletproof vest File:French Army Special Forces.jpg Various bulletproof vests seen worn by the French Army Special Forces Command's units.
Boots
HAIX Centre Europe (HAIX Nepal Pro) File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany
File:Flag of France.svg France
Combat boots File:French Marines.jpg Standard combat boots of the French army
Meindl Desert Defence File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Combat boots File:French troops.jpg Hot climate combat boots of the French army

Optronic devices and observation systems

Name Origin Type Photo Notes
Safran Vectronix Leica Vector File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland
Multifunctional optronic device File:Safran Vectronix.jpg
  • Binocular rangefinder with day optics, an integrated 3-dimensional 360° digital compass and a class 1 eye-safe laser rangefinder.
  • Allows infantrymen and forward observers to conduct long-range observation and target acquisition missions from 5 m to over 4 km, at both day and night.
  • Mostly replaced by the Safran Vector 21
  • Occasionally still seen used by French troops
Safran Vectronix Vector 21 File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland
Multifunctional optronic device File:Safran Vector 21.jpg
File:Vector 21 and Akeron MP.jpg
  • Succeeded the Leica Vector in general service
  • The Vector 21 increases the range for distance measurements up to 12 km. It also has a 1,550 nm laser invisible to image intensification devices, providing an added level of security.
Safran Vectronix JIM LR File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland
Multifunctional optronic device File:Safran JIM LR.jpg
File:Safran JIM LR (2).jpg
  • Long-range, multifunctional, infrared binoculars
  • Equips conventional units
  • Provides optimal day and night vision up to 10 km for threat detection, target identification and intelligence gathering on all terrains and in all weather conditions.
Safran Vectronix JIM Compact File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland
Multifunctional optronic device File:Safran JIM Compact.jpg
  • Lightweight, multifunctional, long-range infrared binoculars
  • Equips the Special Operations Command's units as well as specialized conventional units such as the Parachute Commando Group (GCP) and Mountain Commando Group (GCM)
  • Allows operators to carry out missions of surveillance and geolocation of targets up to 12 km and is usable even in the most extreme environments. It notably combines advanced capabilities, such as See-Spot, low-light positive identification, transmission of information and filled-in images, channel fusion, and new functionalities dedicated to long-range fire, air support and artillery.
Safran Vectronix Moskito TI File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland
Multifunctional optronic device File:Safran Moskito TI.jpg
  • Multifunctional stealth binoculars
  • Used by the Special Operations Command's units, the Parachute Commando Group and Mountain Commando Group
  • Offers full situational awareness 24 hours a day, notably providing distance measurement and geolocation of targets in just a few seconds up to 10 km, day and night. Safran claims it is the best-in-class in terms of both recognition capability and functionality.
Thales OB70 Lucie File:Flag of France.svg France Night vision device File:Thales OB70 Lucie.jpg
  • In service since the mid-1990s
  • Being replaced by the Thales O-NYX (in service since 2020) and Thales BI-NYX (contract awarded to Thales in December 2020 with delivery expected to begin in 2022)
Thales JVN O-NYX File:Flag of France.svg France Night vision device File:Thales JVN O-NYX.jpg
  • Successor of the Thales OB70 Lucie and meant to equip dismounted French units
  • Entered service in 2020
  • 10,000 units out of 15,000 ordered were delivered as of February 2023. An additional batch of 4,000 O-NYX was ordered the same month, with delivery of all 19,000 units expected by 2025.
Thales JVN Bonie HP (High Performance) File:Flag of France.svg France Night vision device File:Thales Bonie HP.jpg
File:Thales Bonie HP (2).jpg
Equips the Special Operations Command's units, the Parachute Commando Group and Mountain Commando Group since 2019

Special equipment

Name Origin Type Photo Notes
FÉLIN system File:Flag of France.svg France Integrated combat technology File:Système Félin (3).jpg
  • Delivered between 2010 and 2015
  • New updated version of the FÉLIN system in 2016
  • The total cost of the program for 18,552 systems issued to 18 regiments was estimated to be €1.07 billion (FY2016)
  • 23,065 systems in service as of 2021

Infantry equipment

Pistols

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
MAC 50 File:Flag of France.svg France Semi-automatic pistol 9×19mm Parabellum File:MAC-50 detoured.jpg File:Mac 50.jpg
  • In service since 1953
  • Being replaced by the Glock 17 Gen 5 FR since 2020
PAMAS G1 File:Flag of France.svg France Semi-automatic pistol 9×19mm Parabellum File:DCB-Shooting MAS G1S.jpg File:French infantryman.jpg
  • French-manufactured variant of the Beretta 92
  • Entered service with the national gendarmerie in 1989, with the Air Force in 1992, and with the Army and Navy in 1999
  • 97,502 units in service in 2002[3]
  • Also being replaced by the Glock 17 Gen 5 FR since 2020
HK USP Compact Tactical File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Semi-automatic pistol .45 ACP File:H&K USP CT, .45 ACP (25625290736).jpg File:HK USP.jpg Seen used by the Special Operations Command's units and some conventional units such as army engineer divers
Glock 17 File:Flag of Austria.svg Austria Semi-automatic pistol 9×19mm Parabellum File:GLOCK 17 Gen 4 Pistol MOD 45160305.jpg File:Glock 17 G5 FR.jpg
  • In January 2020, it was announced the Glock 17 Gen 5 FR, a custom-made fifth generation model of the Glock 17 ("FR" standing for "France"), had been selected to be the new standard-issue pistol of the French Armed Forces, replacing the MAC 50 and PAMAS G1. 74,596 units were ordered with 80% for the French Army.
  • Full delivery of the order was completed in October 2022, with 74,600 units in total received.
  • The Glock 17 was already in service with some French units before its selection to equip regular units. It was for example equipping Special Operations Command's units for years. It was also already used by some specialized units of the conventional forces such as the Parachute Commando Group, the Mountain Commando Group and army engineer divers (the Glock 17M specifically in the case of the latter).

Submachine guns

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
HK MP5 A5
HK MP5 SD3
File:Flag of Germany.svg West Germany
File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany
Submachine gun 9×19mm Parabellum Heckler & Koch MP5 bHeckler Koch MP5 Used by the Special Operations Command's units
HK MP7 A1
HK MP7 A2
File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Submachine gun 4.6×30mm File:HK MP7 Bundeswehr noBG.png Used by the Special Operations Command's units
FN P90 File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium Submachine gun FN 5.7×28mm File:P90--.png Used by the Special Operations Command's units

Assault rifles

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
FAMAS F1 File:Flag of France.svg France Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO File:Rifles FAMAS.jpgFile:French FAMAS F1.jpg
HK416 F
HK416 D14.5RS
HK416 A5
File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO File:HK416N.png
File:13 RDP Athéna.jpg
File:1st 1st Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment.jpg
  • In 2017, the HK416 F, a custom-made model of the HK416 ("F" standing for "France"), was selected to replace the FAMAS as the standard-issue rifle of the French Armed Forces. The Aimpoint CompM5 was selected the following year to be the standard-issue sight for the rifle. 117,000 HK416 F have been ordered and 70,340 units have been delivered as of March 2023.
  • The HK416 was already in service with the Special Operations Command's units since 2007, a decade before its selection to equip conventional forces. As of 2021, it still is the most commonly used assault rifle by French special forces operators.
FN SCAR-L File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO File:FN SCAR-L noBG.png

File:GCP FN SCAR.jpg

Used by the Special Operations Command's units and the Parachute Commando Group
SIG MCX VIRTUS File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO
.300 AAC Blackout
File:SIG-MCX-Rifle.jpeg Used by the Special Operations Command's units and the Mountain Commando Group
SIG SG 553 File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO File:13e RDP.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units and conventional diving units
M16A2
Colt Model 727
File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Assault rifle 5.56×45mm NATO File:M16A2 Rifle with M203 Grenade Launcher (7414627064).jpg
  • Still listed by the French army among the weapons in service with the 1er RPIMa as late as 2009 and generally seen used in tandem with the M203 grenade launcher. It is unknown if the rifle is still in use by the 1er RPIMa.
  • Still used to train troops in the 51st Infantry Regiment as of 2021
AK-47 File:Flag of the Soviet Union.svg Soviet Union
File:Flag of Poland.svg Poland
Assault rifle 7.62×39mm File:AK-47 assault rifle.jpg File:French army AK47.jpg
  • Procured from Poland
  • Still used to train troops in the 51st Infantry Regiment as of 2021

Sniper and anti-materiel rifles

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
FN SCAR-H PR File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium Designated marksman rifle
Sniper rifle
7.62×51mm NATO File:MK 17 Sniper Support Rifle.png
  • Selected in 2019 to replace the FR F2
  • The full delivery of the 2,620 rifles, 1,096 infrared optronic modules and 1,766 light intensification optronic modules ordered was completed in February 2023.
HK 417 File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Battle rifle
Designated marksman rifle
7.62×51mm NATO Used by the Special Operations Command's units and conventional troops
PGM Ultima Ratio File:Flag of France.svg France Sniper rifle 7.62×51mm NATO File:Ultima Ratio Commando slovenske vojske.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units
Sako TRG-42 File:Flag of Finland.svg Finland Sniper rifle .300 Winchester Magnum
.338 Lapua Magnum
File:French snipers.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units and some conventional units
Cadex CDX-40 Shadow (Elsa) File:Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg Canada Sniper rifle .408 CT File:Cadex CDX-40.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units
PGM Hécate II File:Flag of France.svg France Anti-materiel rifle .50 BMG File:PGM Hecate.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units and conventional units
Barrett M107 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Anti-materiel rifle .50 BMG File:M107 1.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units

Machine guns

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
FN Minimi Para File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium Light machine gun 5.56×45mm NATO File:FN MINIMI Standard Right.jpg

File:French F3 helmet.jpg

Widely used in the French Armed Forces
FN Evolys File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium Light machine gun 5.56×45mm NATO
7.62×51mm NATO
  • Delivered in 2022
  • Used by the Special Operations Command's units
ANF1 File:Flag of France.svg France General purpose machine gun 7.62×51mm NATO File:Mitrailleuse-IMG 1730.jpg
  • Entered service in 1952
  • Being replaced by the FN MAG
FN MAG 58 File:Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Belgium General purpose machine gun 7.62×51mm NATO File:FN MAG white background.jpg
  • Selected in 2010 to replace the ANF1
  • 10,881 units ordered in 2011
M2 Browning File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Heavy machine gun .50 BMG File:M2 machine gun at Musee de l Armee-IMG 7566-white.jpg

File:M2 Browning.jpg

Used by the Special Operations Command's units and conventional forces
M134 Minigun File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Rotary medium machine gun 7.62×51mm NATO File:DAM134DT.png

File:HH-60G M134.jpg

Used by the Special Operations Command's units

Shotguns

Name Origin Type Cartridge Photo Notes
Benelli M4 Super 90 File:Flag of Italy.svg Italy Semi-automatic shotgun 12-gauge File:Benelli m4 2.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units and some conventional units
Benelli Supernova Tactical File:Flag of Italy.svg Italy Pump-action shotgun 12-gauge File:Benelli-SuperNova-Tactical.jpg Selected the Benelli Supernova Tactical in 2022 as the new service shotgun.
Mossberg 500 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Pump-action shotgun 12-gauge File:Shotgun Mossberg 590.jpg File:Mossberg 500.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units as well as by conventional troops stationed in French Guiana.
Remington Model 870 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Pump-action shotgun 12-gauge File:MCS 870 Modular Combat Shotgun (7414624938).jpg Used by conventional troops stationed in French Guiana.

Grenade launchers

Name Origin Type Caliber Photo Notes
M203 grenade launcher File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Grenade launcher 40mm grenade File:PEO M203A2 Grenade Launcher.png Seen used by 1er RPIMa operators in tandem with the M16 assault rifle in the early 2000s. It is unknown if it is still in service.
Heckler & Koch AG36 File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Grenade launcher 40mm grenade File:HK AGCEGLM.jpg
  • In service in limited numbers since 2014
  • 10,767 units ordered in September 2016.
Heckler & Koch 269 F File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Grenade launcher 40mm grenade File:PEO M320 Grenade Launcher.jpg

File:HK416 F HK269 F.jpg

The HK269 is the result of the development of the 40mm x 46 low velocity M320 GLM with the ability to open the barrel to the left or right. It can be used under the HK416 F or as a stand-alone weapon.
Milkor MGL File:Flag of South Africa (1928–1982).svg South Africa
File:Flag of South Africa.svg South Africa
Grenade launcher 40mm grenade

File:Milkor MGL in French service.jpg

Used by the Special Operations Command's units
Heckler & Koch GMG File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Grenade machine gun 40mm grenade File:HK GMW.jpg Used by the Special Operations Command's units

Portable anti-material weapons

Name Origin Type Caliber Photo Notes
AT4 CS File:Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden Recoilless anti-tank weapon 84mm File:AT4 CS.jpg
  • 2 AT4 CS per infantry squad
  • The AT4 CS equips each of the grenadiers-voltigeurs of the 300 Meter fireteam. Work in progress concerns the acquisition of a night firing capability by 2020.
  • The F2 standard will replace both the Eryx and the AT4 CS (F1) in French service. Delivery expected to begin in 2022.
MILAN File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Germany.svg West Germany
Anti-tank guided missile system 115mm File:MILAN ATGM.jpg
  • 343 firing posts in service as of 2021
  • Being replaced by the Akeron MP
  • Unknown number of firing posts and missiles donated to Ukraine in 2022
Eryx File:Flag of France.svg France Anti-tank guided missile system 136mm File:Exercise Wessex Storm 2020 MOD 45167354.jpg
  • 700 firing posts and 12,000 missiles delivered
  • 630 firing posts in service as of 2021
  • Will be succeeded by the AT4 F2
FGM-148 Javelin File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile system 127mm File:Javelin of 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade, Exercise Rock Sokol at Pocek Range in Postonja, Slovenia, March 9, 2016.jpg
  • 76 launchers and 260 missiles delivered in 2011
  • Removed from the inventory in 2021 and mothballed pending a decision by the DGA
  • Some or all were donated to Ukraine in 2022
  • Replaced by the Akeron MP
Akeron MP File:Flag of France.svg France Fifth generation anti-tank guided missile system 140mm File:MBDA MMP launcher at Dubai Airshow 2021.jpg
  • Successor of the MILAN and US-made Javelin systems in French service
  • 400 firing posts and 2,850 missiles have been ordered as of 2017
  • First units delivered in 2017
  • 287 firing posts in service as of 2021

Vehicles

Armoured vehicles

Name Origin Type Number Photo Notes
Tanks
Leclerc File:Flag of France.svg France Main battle tank 222 File:Bastille Day 2014 Paris - Motorised troops 051.jpg
  • Total - 406 (222 In service & 184 In storage).
  • 200 will be upgraded to the XLR-standard.
Engineering / Recovery and repair
Engin Blindé du Génie File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured engineering vehicle 38 File:20060714 defile blindes p1040886.jpg
  • Capable of launching demolition grenades for destroying casemates, dropping 20 anti-tank mines, equipped with an hydraulic winch, a straight shovel and a log grapple.
  • 42 units in service as of 2023
SDZ - Zone mine clearance system File:Flag of France.svg France Chaser remotely operated / Mine clearance vehicle 10 File:CEFA SDZ mine clearance system.jpg
  • System for opening mined routes
  • 10 ordered and delivered from 2017
Leclerc DCL File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured recovery vehicle 17 File:20060714 defile p1040711.jpg
  • 20 delivered
  • 18 in service as of 2021
  • They will be upgraded to the XLR-standard
AMX-30D File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured recovery vehicle 26 File:AMX 30D Jeoffrécourt 05888.jpg
  • First prototype produced and delivered in 1971
  • First of a pre-series of five vehicles delivered in 1973 and 100 units ordered the same year, with production beginning in 1975
  • 26 still in service as of december 2023
Wheeled armoured fighting vehicles
VBCI File:Flag of France.svg France 627 File:VBCI, nouvelles couleurs Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021) (4).jpg
  • The full delivery of the 520 VCI and 110 VPC ordered (including their respective 32T variants) was fulfilled in 2018
  • 627 units in service as of december 2023
VAB File:Flag of France.svg France ε2,005 File:VAB, Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021) (2).jpg
File:VAB Sanitaire, Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021).jpg
File:VAB SAEC, Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021) (1).jpg
File:VAB Mephisto.JPEG
  • 4,000 units delivered to the French Armed Forces in nearly 30 variants and sub-variants since the VAB's introduction
  • Will be gradually replaced by the VBMR Griffon and VBMR-L Serval (from 2018 and 2022 onwards respectively)
  • 2557 (including the 57 VAB OBS variant mentioned in the "Artillery and air defense" section) in active service with the French army as of 2021
  • A 'significant' amount of VAB donated to Ukraine in 2022
VBMR Griffon File:Flag of France.svg France 587 File:VBMR Griffon - Armée de terre (14 juillet 2021) (1) 01.jpg
  • Successor of the VAB
  • 1,872 units on order under the Scorpion program
  • 936 units to be delivered by 2025
  • Full delivery by 2030
  • 575 units delivered as of December 2023
VBMR-L Serval File:Flag of France.svg France 208 (2023) File:FSAN0SUX0AAPz70.jpg
  • Will primarily equip the 11th Airborne Brigade and the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade.
  • 978 units are on order under the Scorpion program. The contract was awarded in February 2018 and included funding for 489 vehicles to be delivered by 2025, reaching the planned 978 by 2030.
  • 1,060 additional Serval VLTP P segment haut (multi-purpose light tactical vehicles) will be purchased by 2033.
  • 208 units delivered as of March 2024
AMX 10 RC File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured reconnaissance vehicle
Wheeled tank destroyer
Light tank
203 File:AMX-10 RC, nouvelles couleurs Armée de terre (14 juillet 2021) (2).jpg
  • Will be gradually replaced by the EBRC Jaguar from 2021 onwards
  • 40 were given to Ukraine in March 2023.
EBRC Jaguar File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured reconnaissance vehicle 56 File:EBRC Jaguar.jpg
  • Successor of the AMX 10 RC, ERC 90 Sagaie and VAB Mephisto
  • 300 units were ordered under the Scorpion program and will be delivered from 2021 onwards
  • 56 delivered as of 2023
EBRC Kiosque File:Flag of France.svg France EBRC Jaguar Driver Training Vehicle 2 (2023)
  • Ordered and delivered from 2022
  • Used for ABC training and practice on EBRC Jaguar
Buffalo MRAP File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle 3 File:Buffalo mine-protected vehicle.jpg
  • Armored vehicle equipped with a remote manipulator arm
  • 5 units were ordered for the Afghanistan war.
  • Replaced by the Nexter Aravis, a French developed MRAP, but still in service.
Nexter Aravis File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany
Infantry mobility vehicle / Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected 20 File:Nexter Aravis à Strasbourg, 2010 (2).jpg
VBL File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured car 1,343 File:VBL, nouvelles couleurs Armée de Terre (14 juillet 2021) (2).jpg
  • 730 of them are being upgraded to the Ultima-standard with a new engine, new transmission, strengthened suspension and additional armour
  • Will be succeeded by the Véhicule Blindé d’Aide à l’Engagement (VBAE)
PVP File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured car 1,110 File:PVP, Armée de terre - 14 juillet 2021 (1).jpg
Tracked articulated vehicles
Véhicule à Haute Mobilité (VHM)
Véhicule Articulé Chenillé (VAC)
VAC NewGen or VAC 270
File:Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden / File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United KingdomFile:Flag of France.svg France Armoured personnel carrier 87 ( 47 / 34 / 6 ) File:Bastille Day 2014 Paris - Motorised troops 030.jpg
VAC du 13e bataillon de chasseurs alpins en 2010
  • The Véhicule à Haute Mobilité (High Mobility Vehicle) or VHM is the term used within the French Army to designate the Bandvagn 210 Mk II, which is derived from the Bv 206. It is a tracked, armoured, articulated, amphibious and air-transportable vehicle weighing 13 tons. First ordered in December 2009, there are 53 units in service as of 2017.
  • The Véhicule Articulé Chenillé (Tracked Articulated Vehicle) or VAC designates the Bv 206 and Bv 206S in French service. 50 VAC (Bv 206) were procured in the 1990s and some were upgraded to the Bv 206S standard for service in Afghanistan. They are being phased out and replaced with the VHM since 2011.

Artillery and air defence

Name Origin Variant Number Photo Notes
Self-propelled artillery
AMX 30 AuF1 File:Flag of France.svg France 155 mm self-propelled howitzer 32 File:GCT 155mm AUF1, French army licence registration '6834 0140', Strasbourg 1944, photo-1.JPG
  • 273 units delivered
  • 32 in active service as of 2021
CAESAR File:Flag of France.svg France 155 mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer 64 File:French Ceasar Task Force Wagram Al Quim.jpg
  • Delivered from 2008 onwards
  • 76 units in service as of March 2022
  • 18 units donated to Ukraine by the army
  • 12 units transferred to Ukraine by Nexter industries
  • 6 additional units delivered to the army by Nexter industries as of November 2023
  • The CAESAR Nouvelle Génération (CAESAR New Generation) or CAESAR NG is being developed by Nexter. The contract was awarded in February 2022 by the DGA.
CAESAR NG File:Flag of France.svg France 155 mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer 0 File:CAESAR NG (Mk. II) New Generation 155mm 6x6 self-propelled howitzer.png
  • Updated version of the Caesar will be heavier, more mobile (better engine) and better protected.
  • Will be delivered from 2026 onwards
  • 33 units planned to be in service as of June 2026, 109 in June 2030
Artillery observation
VAB VOA File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured artillery observation vehicle 40 File:VAB VOA 012 FR.JPG Will be replaced by the EPC/VOA variant of the VBMR Griffon
Griffon VOA File:Flag of France.svg France Armoured artillery observation vehicle 11
Rocket artillery
LRU MLRS File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States
File:Flag of France.svg France
227mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher 9 File:Bastille Day 2015 military parade in Paris 33.jpg
  • 57 M270 MLRS (called "Lance-Roquettes Multiple" or "LRM" in French service) were delivered in the early 1990s.
  • 55 in service in 2007
  • All were withdrawn from service by France in accordance with the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions.
  • In 2014, 13 of those LRM were converted into the "Lance-Roquettes Unitaire" (LRU), which is a European variant of the upgraded M270A1. Those 13 remain in active service.
  • 2 were given to Ukraine.
Mortars
MO 120 RT F1 File:Flag of France.svg France 120 mm mortar 74 File:Mortier et VAB - Armée de terre (14 juillet 2021).jpg 74 in service as of december 2023
Mo 81 LLR F1 File:Flag of France.svg France 81 mm mortar 168 File:French Army's 1st Infantry Regiment (Cold Response 2022).jpg 2 units per infantry company
M6 mortar File:Flag of Austria.svg Austria 60 mm light mortar 120 File:D190718ge3515.jpg
  • Selected in 2020 as the new 60 mm mortar
  • Contract awarded on 21 June that year
  • 120 M6 C-640 Mk1 mortars, 6,500 HE shells, 2,000 ILL-VIS shells, 2,300 ILL-IR shells, 2,500 smoke shells, 4,700 training shells, as well as 50 booster bipods and associated aiming devices to be delivered over the 45-month duration of the contract
LGI Mle F1 File:Flag of France.svg France Mortar, 51mm grenade File:LGI Mle F1.jpg
  • 1 LGI per infantry squad
  • Man-portable, easily carried and operated by a single soldier, it equips one of the two grenadiers-voltigeurs of the 600 Meter fireteam in an infantry squad
  • Ammunition include high explosive projectiles for personnel neutralization and material destruction as well as smoke, blinding and flare bombs
  • Will be succeeded by the upcoming Fly-K Mk2 LGI developed by Cathyor.
Air defence
Mistral File:Flag of France.svg France Short-range surface-to-air missile system 196 File:54RA-IMG 9142.jpg
  • 196 Mistral firing stations in service as of 2021
  • Unknown number of Mistral MANPADS donated to Ukraine in 2022
NEROD F5-5 File:Flag of France.svg France Portable anti-drone weapon Unknown File:NEROD F5.jpg The NEROD F5 is a microwave jammer capable of disrupting and neutralizing all communication protocols used by drones. It neutralizes:
  • the usual or improvised mini and micro drones by acting simultaneously on 4 remote control frequencies among 5 available
  • the satellite navigation system of the targeted drone.

Engineering

Name Origin Variant Number Photo Notes
Unarmoured engineering vehicles
TNA File:Flag of France.svg France Airborne leveling tractor 6[4] File:Tracto-niveleur aérolargable.jpg
MFRD File:Flag of France.svg France Rapid destruction drilling truck 122 File:MFRD 13e Genie 2007 07 14 n2.jpg
EGAME File:Flag of France.svg France Bulldozer 35 File:UNAC dozer photo-1.JPG
MPG File:Flag of France.svg France Loader ? File:Matériel Polyvalent du Génie MPG, photo-2.JPG
UNAC 20TRR File:Flag of France.svg France Road–rail excavator 2
Liebherr LTM 1050–3.1 File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany Mobile crane 50 File:Liebherr telescopic crane photo-1.JPG
SOUVIM File:Flag of South Africa.svg South Africa Interim Vehicle Mounted Mine Detector 8 File:Souvim2.JPG
Scania P340 File:Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden Dump truck 161[5] File:Camion-benne Scania du Génie, Paris 14 juillet 2017.jpg
Caterpillar D6 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Bulldozer 40 File:Bastille Day 2014 Paris - Motorised troops 080.jpg
EGRAP File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United Kingdom Backhoe loader 92 File:Charleville mezieres defilé 14 juillet 2010 03.jpg
Bridging vehicles/Military Ferries
EFA File:Flag of France.svg France Ferry/Mobile bridge 20 File:French army EFA DSC00859 sans CRS.jpg
PFM File:Flag of France.svg France Mobile bridge 70 (2013) File:Charleville mezieres defilé 14 juillet 2010 04.jpg
SPRAT File:Flag of France.svg France Modular assault bridge 10 File:SPRAT, le 14 juillet 2012 à Paris.JPG
Vedette de pontage F2 File:Flag of France.svg France Bridging speedboat 8 File:Vedette de pontage F2 de l'Armée de Terre.jpg
Robots
MINIROGEN (ECA COBRA MK2) File:Flag of France.svg France Multi-function military robot 30
  • Used for mine clearing, chemical detection and reconnaissance
  • 30 ordered
  • Delivery began in 2012
ECA UGV IGUANA File:Flag of France.svg France Mine clearing robot 15 43 units to be delivered until 2024
iRobot Packbot 510 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Mine clearing robot 15
File:IRobot PackBot 510 E.T..JPG

Logistics

Name Origin Variant Number Photo Notes
TRM 10000 File:Flag of France.svg France Truck 1,322 File:TRM-10000 Citerne 014 FR.JPG
TRM 700–100 File:Flag of France.svg France Truck 116 File:Renault TRm700-100 de l'Armée de Terre.jpg
TRM 2000 File:Flag of France.svg France Truck 2,225 File:TRM-2000 002.JPG
Renault GBC 180 File:Flag of France.svg France Truck 5,322 File:Renault GBC 180.jpg
Renault Kerax File:Flag of France.svg France Truck 420 File:Renault 420 photo-1.JPG
Porteur polyvalent terrestre (PPT) File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Italy.svg Italy
  • PPLOG: Logistic vehicle
  • PPLD: Recovery vehicle
900 File:Villabé - 2014-10-23 - IMG 6938.jpg 1600 units on order
Vehicle porte conteneurs maritimes (VPCM) File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United Kingdom
8x8 container carrier 12 File:VPCM BT120 ETAS.jpg
Tanker trucks
Camion citerne polyvalent (CCP10) File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden
6x6 fuel tanker truck 461 File:Quartier Général Sabatier - Véhicule 8.JPG
Camion Ravitailleur Pétrolier de l’Avant à Capacité Étendue (CaRaPACE) File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of Sweden.svg Sweden
Armoured fuel tanker truck 34 File:Military Fuel Service Bastille Day 2013 Paris t114535.jpg
Recovery vehicles
Camion lourd de depannage routier (CLDR) File:Flag of France.svg France 8x4 recovery vehicle 30 File:Renault 400 recovery vehicle (1).jpg

Unarmoured vehicles

Name Origin Variant Number Photo Notes
Unarmoured vehicles
RIDER (Fardier) File:Flag of France.svg France Light utility vehicle Unac-Fardier-The-airdroppable-RIDER
  • 300 units ordered, alongside 172 trailers
  • 8 RIDER delivered as of December 2022
VLRA File:Flag of France.svg France Light utility vehicle File:VLRA - Armée de terre (14 juillet 2021) (2).jpg The VLRA "Pamela" configuration (pictured) is a mobile platform equipped with a Mistral firing station
Panhard VPS File:Flag of France.svg France Light utility vehicle 51 File:French SF1 Domenjod 120618.jpg
  • Delivered between 2006 and 2008
  • Used by the Special Operation Command's units
  • Will be replaced by 241 Véhicules Légers des Forces Spéciales (VLFS) from 2020 onwards
Arquus AREG VLFS File:Flag of France.svg France Light utility vehicle Successor of the Panhard VPS
Renault Kangoo File:Flag of France.svg France Light utility vehicle 460[6] File:Renault Kangoo II appartenant à la force Sentinelle.jpg Used by counter-terrorism units
VMA File:Flag of France.svg France Airport crash tender File:Quartier Général Sabatier - Véhicule incendie.JPG Used by the French Army Light Aviation.[7]
Peugeot P4 File:Flag of Germany.svg Germany
File:Flag of France.svg France
Light utility vehicle 2,500 File:French Peugeot P4 dsc06852.jpg
  • MB G-Class chassis with French engine
  • 13,500 units delivered between 1982 and 1992
  • 600 withdrawn from service every year
  • Being replaced by VT4.
T4 VLTP NP File:Flag of Japan.svg Japan
File:Flag of France.svg France
Light utility vehicle 500[8] File:Technamm Masstech French Army (Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ76).jpg
  • Based on the five-door VDJ76 Toyota Land Cruisers procured from French coach builders Technamm.[9]
  • Delivery of 500 units until the end of May 2018
Arquus Trapper VT4 File:Flag of France.svg France
File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States
Light utility vehicle 4, 200 File:ACMAT VT4 couleur brun « Terre de France ».jpg
  • VLTP-NP based on the Ford Everest
  • Militarized by ACMAT and sold under the Arquus brand
  • 4380 units planned
  • Trapper carries a 1-ton payload
  • Trigger variant, with a slightly larger interior and carrying a 1.3 ton payload, being developed by ACMAT[10]
Ford Ranger File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Light utility vehicle 1,000[11] sans cadre Introduced as an urgent operational requirement to replace the Peugeot P4.
Land Rover Defender File:Flag of the United Kingdom.svg United Kingdom Light utility vehicle 550[12] File:Land Rover Defender FR Army - Strasbourg.jpg
Quad Polaris File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States All-terrain vehicle 348 File:Quad Polaris armée de terre, 14 juillet 2016, Paris.jpg
  • Used by French special forces
  • 300 Polaris Sportsman 700
  • 48 Polaris MV 850

Aircraft

Aircraft Origin Type Quantity Photo Notes
Fixed-wing aircraft
Pilatus PC-6 File:Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg Switzerland Transport and airdrop 5 File:No. 891 MCE Pc-6 French Army (3217163443).jpg
SOCATA TBM File:Flag of France.svg France VIP transport and utility 8 File:Socata TBM-700B, France - Navy JP7415101.jpg
Helicopters
Eurocopter Tiger HAP/HAD File:Flag of Europe.svg Europe Attack helicopter 67 File:French, US forces continue working side by side.jpg 67 in service as of 2023
NHIndustries NH90 File:Flag of Europe.svg Europe Utility helicopter 61 File:P1080731 (15206952860).jpg 61 in service in december 2023
Aérospatiale Puma File:Flag of France.svg France Utility helicopter 25 File:SA330 Puma - RIAT 2013 (10517596854).jpg
  • 25 in service as of december 2023
  • Being replaced by the NH90
Eurocopter Cougar File:Flag of France.svg France Utility helicopter 24 File:Eurocopter AS-532UL Cougar, France - Army AN0633007.jpg
  • 24 in service as of december 2023
  • Being replaced by the NH90
Eurocopter Caracal File:Flag of France.svg France CSAR/SOF helicopter 8 File:French Army Cougar helicopter- Afghanistan.jpg 8 in service as of 2023
Aérospatiale Gazelle File:Flag of France.svg France Reconnaissance helicopter 80 File:Gazelle SA342M.jpg 80 in service as of december 2023
Eurocopter Fennec File:Flag of France.svg France Light surveillance helicopter 18 File:Fennec AS555UN 2.jpg 18 in service as of 2023
Colibri File:Flag of Europe.svg Europe Training helicopter 36 File:Eurocopter EC120 Colibri.jpg 36 in service as of 2023
UAVs
Safran Patroller File:Flag of France.svg France ISTAR File:Safran Electronics & Defense Patroller.jpg
  • 5 systems (28 drones) planned.
  • 1 system (5 drones) delivered as of December 2023
  • Entering service operational service in 2024
EADS DRAC File:Flag of France.svg France Reconnaissance 38[13]
  • 38 systems in service in 2017
  • Will be replaced by the Thales Spy'Ranger from 2019
Thales Spy'Ranger File:Flag of France.svg France Reconnaissance 210 File:Drone SMDR armée de terre (14 juillet 2021).jpg
  • 70 systems (201 drones) in service as of 2023
ECA IT180 DroGen File:Flag of France.svg France Reconnaissance 12 6 systems (consisting of 2 drones each) in service as of 2021
Novadem NX70 File:Flag of France.svg France Reconnaissance 54 27 systems (54 drones) delivered in September 2019
Black Hornet Nano 3 File:Flag of the United States (23px).png United States Reconnaissance 400 File:ARMY WARFIGHTING EXPERIMENT 2017 - TESTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF TECHNOLOGY MOD 45162646.jpg
  • 400 drones as of 2021
  • Some were given to allies

References

  1. "Chiffres clés de la Défense 2021" (PDF). January 2022.
  2. "Le ministère des Armées et vous".
  3. "PAMAS G1". gendarmes.net (in français). Archived from the original on 5 October 2016. Retrieved 29 September 2016.
  4. "Un engin unique au monde développé pour les paras". Archived from the original on 5 August 2017. Retrieved 5 August 2017.
  5. "28052009La Délégation générale pour l'armement passe commande de 161 porteurs P 340 CB6X6HHZ à Scania". Scania France. Archived from the original on 6 August 2017. Retrieved 6 August 2017.
  6. "Le ministère de la Défense a commandé 520 véhicules pour l'opération Sentinelle". 10 February 2016. Archived from the original on 5 August 2017. Retrieved 5 August 2017.
  7. "Pompiers aéroportuaires : les anges gardiens de l'aviation - avionslegendaires.net". 19 April 2012. Archived from the original on 6 August 2017. Retrieved 6 August 2017.
  8. "VLTP : il arrive ! Et le Masstech T4 de Technamm ?". 5 September 2017.
  9. "French Technamm Masstech T4 VLTP VP". Joint-Forces.com. 3 August 2018. Retrieved 5 October 2021.
  10. "ARQUUS TRIGGER and TRAPPER ~French Army Vehicles". Joint-Forces.com. 14 June 2018. Retrieved 5 October 2021.
  11. "Quand l'armée française préfère rouler américain". 4 May 2015.
  12. "Defender : le véhicule polyvalent de l'armée de Terre" (in français). defense.gouv.fr. 28 June 2010. Archived from the original on 8 August 2014. Retrieved 7 October 2013.
  13. "EADS Defence & Security delivers second batch of DRAC UAVs to French Ministry of Defence". Archived from the original on 27 June 2018. Retrieved 27 June 2018.

External links