French defense company Safran and European missile manufacturer MBDA have successfully test-fired their jointly developed Thundart rocket as part of France’s Long-Range Land Strike program. The test took place at the Île du Levant range in the Mediterranean, demonstrating a ground-to-ground strike capability of up to 150 kilometers. The companies say they could deliver the first operational multiple-launch rocket systems in 2029 if selected by the French armed forces.

France plans to replace nine aging rocket artillery systems with at least 13 new systems by 2030, with a total target of 26 launchers and 300 munitions by 2035. The defense ministry is evaluating domestic proposals alongside off-the-shelf foreign options, stressing the importance of long-range strike capabilities in high-intensity conflict. Officials have emphasized the need for a sovereign solution, while also weighing effectiveness, cost and delivery timelines.

Thundart is fully designed and produced in France and is not subject to United States export restrictions. The system features a launcher mounted on an eight-wheel truck capable of carrying up to eight rockets and executing rapid 'shoot and scoot' maneuvers. The munition uses propulsion developed by MBDA’s rocket engine unit and a guidance kit adapted from Safran’s glide bomb technology, offering supersonic speed, a 100-kilogram payload and resistance to electronic warfare.

Both companies say they are prepared to scale up production to meet demand and are considering forming a joint venture to further develop the system, including extended-range variants. They state the platform can meet France’s goal of achieving operational capability by 2030.