France and 8 European countries are joining forces around the Mistral 3 missile.
In a strategic approach aimed at strengthening Europe's anti-air and anti-missile defense capabilitiesthe European Commission has approved the joint acquisition of Mistral 3 missiles by France and eight other European countries. This ambitious project, supported by the system EDIRPA (European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act)marks a significant step in the consolidation of the European defense industry.
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The proposal, submitted by France, was selected on November 14, 2024 among the five projects supported by the European Commission. It will benefit a consortium of countries including Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Hungary, Romania, Spain, Slovenia and Denmark, in addition to France. This initiative underlines the desire of these nations to work closely together to respond to the growing security challenges in European airspace.
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Coordination by the DGA
The French Directorate General for Armaments (DGA) will play a key role in the implementation of this project. It is responsible for purchasing 1,500 Mistral 3 missiles from MBDA, the European manufacturer of missile systems. This substantial order illustrates the commitment of Member States to consolidate their common defense infrastructure.
The capabilities of the Mistral 3 missile
The Mistral 3, the latest in its series, is a very short-range surface-to-air missile, operating according to the “fire and forget” principle. With a length of less than two meters and a weight of less than 20 kg, it stands out for its maneuverability and ease of operation. Capable of effectively targeting fighter planes, helicopters, drones and even cruise missiles, the Mistral 3 represents an adapted response to modern aerial threats.
Characteristics of the Mistral 3 missile:
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Missile name | Mistral 3 |
| Type | Short-range surface-to-air missile (MANPADS) |
| Country of origin | France |
| Manufacturer | MBDA Missile Systems |
| Date of entry into service | Environ 2019 |
| Scope | Up to 7 km |
| Altitude d’engagement | Up to 3 km |
| Vitesse | Up to Mach 2.7 |
| Guidance system | Advanced Infrared (IR) Guidance |
| Aiming system | Thermal sight |
| Launch platforms | Shoulder shooting, land vehicles, ships, helicopters |
| Charge explosive | High explosive fragmentation warhead |
| Propulsion system | Solid fuel rocket engine |
| Missile weight | Environ 19 kg |
| Length | Environ 1,86 m |
| Diameter | 90 mm |
| Reaction time | Very fast, suitable for fast-moving threats |
| Operating environment | Works in harsh weather conditions |
| Resistance to countermeasures | High level of resistance to infrared decoys (IRCM) |
| Usages | Short-range air defense against planes, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles |
| Users | France and several other countries |
| Special features | – Advanced IR sensor with better detection and tracking – Capable of engaging targets with low heat signatures – Pre-launch and post-launch lock modes (LOBL and LOAL) |
Implications for the European defense industry
The adoption of the Mistral 3 project by the European Commission is also a boost for the competitiveness, robustness and resilience of Europe's defense industrial and technological base. By aggregating their demands, partner countries increase the visibility and viability of the European defense sector, thereby encouraging innovation and industrial collaboration on a continental scale.
Signature et perspectives futures
The cooperation agreement, signed on the sidelines of the Eurosatory exhibition on June 19, 2024, paves the way for other joint defense initiatives. With the planned entry into service of the missiles, the participating Member States will strengthen not only their own security but also that of Europe as a whole.
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This article explores the crucial role of European cooperation in strengthening anti-aircraft defense capabilities through the acquisition of the Mistral 3 missile. This initiative, in addition to consolidating the defense infrastructures of participating nations, illustrates the importance of unity and strategic collaboration in the face of contemporary threats.
Source : DGA
Image: mistral 3 – © MBDA
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