DGA Orders New Naval Cruise Missile Standard for MBDA

The French Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) announced at the Euronaval show that it will sign a contract with European missile manufacturer MBDA to supply the new naval cruise missile standard, MdCN Mk2. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2030.

MBDA, owned by Airbus, Leonardo, and BAE Systems, is developing an improved version of the weapon featuring a range exceeding 1,000 km, enhanced stealth capabilities, and increased resistance to satellite navigation jamming. The missile's lethality and ability to penetrate enemy air defenses will also be upgraded.

The MdCN Mk2 incorporates artificial intelligence technologies designed to improve mission preparation. It is intended for striking deep infrastructure targets and can be launched from multi-mission frigates (FREMM) and Suffren-class attack nuclear submarines.

This contract supports a broader deployment of French naval missiles, with ammunition spending projected to rise by 67% to reach €4 billion in 2027. In addition to the MdCN Mk2 for long-range land strikes, the program includes Exocet MM40 B3C anti-ship missiles and additional Aster missiles for new frigates.

Saïma Hussain, an analyst at AlphaValue, noted that a major industrial impact involves restarting French production of the MdCN after it halted in 2021. The Exocet framework could also pool orders financed by the SAFE program with other European nations.