France requires nano and mini drone capabilities

France has launched a competition for the supply of nano, micro, and mini drones to enhance its intelligence and logistical capabilities. Announced via the EU’s Tenders Electronic Daily on 21 April, France says that the drones must weigh less than 150kg and be “ready-to-use".  

The systems will be deployed for a range of different missions, such as short-range reconnaissance, air drop, and logistics. Key requirements are the ability to operate at distances of up to 50km, and/or the capacity to carry a payload under 20kg. 

During the submission process, candidates must provide evidence of being able to deliver 500 micro drones, weighing under 2.5kg, or 50 mini drones, weighing more than 2.5kg but under 150kg.  

Suppliers must be able to deliver the drones within a 12-month period.  

The competition notice does not define the specifications of a nano drone.  

Following lessons from the Ukraine conflict on the efficacy of low-cost, expendable systems, France is acquiring smaller drones to serve as force multipliers. 

Submission process  

According to the competition notice, the successful supplier(s) will be awarded a framework agreement worth up to EUR250 million. It will last two years, with no opportunities for renewal.  

Companies entering the competition may do so as single suppliers, or as part of a consortium. However, companies can only enter once and must be within the European Economic Area.  

Following the initial application stage, 99 participants will be selected to enter a bidding procedure.  

Submissions must be made via the French procurement platform Place by 4 May.