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doctrine-change2026-07-13 20:41 UTC🇫🇷 France (DGA Rafale integration and live-fire testing; imagery referenced from Istres-Le Tubé Air Base)
France tests and integrates 68mm laser-guided rockets on Rafale for low-cost counter-drone missions
France’s DGA conducted live-fire integration tests of 68mm laser-guided rockets on the Rafale, creating a lower-cost option for countering one-way attack drones. The LADAC program aims to reduce reliance on expensive MICA air-to-air missiles for drone interceptions, with operational fielding planned for summer 2026.
DETAILS
Type
doctrine-change
Occurred
2026-07-13 20:41
Reported
2026-07-13
Location
France (DGA Rafale integration and live-fire testing; imagery referenced from Istres-Le Tubé Air Base)
Coordinates
46.6034, 1.8883
Confidence
72 / 100
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT
Live-fire and integration testing completed for 68mm laser-guided rockets (Aculeus-LG) in Thales Telson JF12 pods on Rafale; intended to provide a cost-effective counter-UAS intercept capability versus using MICA missiles.
DRONES INVOLVED
SOURCES