France requires naval “endurance” drones

France has launched a competition for the supply of “endurance” drones for its navy, to bolster its intelligence and tactical situational awareness capabilities.

The competition was launched by the Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) – the French defence procurement agency – the via the EU’s Tenders Electronic Daily on 14 September.

Specifically, the DGA requires surface and undersea drones with ranges of at least 100 nautical miles that can operate for five to 10 days. 

The drones would be deployed from French Navy vessels such as amphibious helicopter carriers and offshore support and assistance vessels. To integrate the drones with carrier vessels, any necessary “interfaces” should be included.

Additionally, the naval drones should be operational at sea state 4, defined as “moderate” conditions with waves of 1.25-2.5 metres in height. The ability to be deployed at both day and night is also essential. 

Built using a modular and scalable design, each drone must include a command and control system as well as the ability to carry various payloads. 

How many naval drones are required? 

While the DGA has not specified a precise number, the procurement agency says that the maximum number of naval drones it requires is “a few dozen”.

The chosen vendor will be awarded with a contract that encompasses a fixed-price delivery of drones and a provisional portion that allows the DGA to order further tranches as needed. 

The duration of the contract will be 60 months, with no opportunity for renewal. 

Companies based outside the EU or European Economic Area are not eligible to enter the competition. The deadline is 15 October.