Image source: topwar.ru
In May 2022, the French Ministry of Defense launched a project to create its own attack quadcopter, which was scheduled to enter service in July 2025.
The program was delayed somewhat, as the first UAVs, designated Damocles (previously called MX-10), were transferred to the troops in December last year. According to the military department, by July 2026, the army will receive 460 copies.:
Damocles was developed by KNDS France based on a quadcopter from the French company Delair. It can fly at least 10 km, has a flight duration of 40 minutes and is resistant to electronic interference. The 3.5 kg drone is equipped with a high-explosive fragmentation warhead with a "controlled impact" (that is, with a programmable detonation) weighing 550 g and equipped with an optoelectronic turret combining electro-optical and infrared cameras. The deployment time of the UAV is 5 minutes.
Damocles:
Image source: topwar.ru
KNDS France explained:
The law on military planning for 2024-2030 provides for the purchase of 1,800 such drones for the French army. Army Chief of Staff Pierre Schill believes that it is impractical to expand purchases.:
Sonora:
Image Source: topwar.ru
At the same time, supplies of Sonora reconnaissance quadrocopters manufactured by the French company Harmattan AI are being deployed: 1,000 units will be delivered to the troops in the coming days (under a contract dated July 2025). The drone weighs less than 1.8 kg (along with the battery). The communication range is about 2 km in the standard version. Ready for takeoff in less than 1 minute. The UAV is equipped with a high-resolution electro-optical camera (720p with 6x zoom). It is possible to install an additional IR module.
