French defense company Safran, through its subsidiary Preligens, has developed and supplied the guidance system for Ukraine's FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile. In return, the company has requested that Ukraine continue purchasing its AASM HAMMER precision-guided bombs for the Ukrainian Air Force.
Representatives of Ukrainian defense company Fire Point disclosed the arrangement during the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition, Le Monde reports. According to them, the guidance system has already been integrated into the missile for more than a year. Safran is also involved in several other projects with Fire Point as well as other Ukrainian defense companies.
Read more: Belgium Eyes Thundart as France's First Export Customer, System Guided by Ukraine-Proven AASM Hammer Technology
Defense Express notes that, at first glance, such an arrangement may seem unusual for a major French defense contractor, especially since AASM HAMMER bombs are already in operational use with the Ukrainian Air Force and have received positive feedback. However, from the manufacturer's perspective, the agreement is both logical and commercially sound.
If Ukraine continues ordering French precision-guided bombs, Safran will be able to maintain, or potentially increase, production rates while continuing to invest in the weapon's further development. This applies not only to the complete weapon but also to its key components, many of which can be incorporated into other defense programs.
At the same time, combat use by the Ukrainian Air Force provides invaluable operational experience that can be used to improve the weapon. This is particularly important for guidance systems, which must operate in an environment saturated with electronic warfare (EW) systems.
The arrangement is also advantageous for Ukraine. A modern guidance system from a proven French manufacturer strengthens the country's long-range strike capabilities, while the only commitment in return is to continue purchasing a high-quality precision weapon that is already in service and has demonstrated its effectiveness in combat.
Another advantage of the AASM HAMMER is its rocket booster, which distinguishes it from conventional glide bombs. The booster allows the weapon to be released from lower altitudes, reducing the exposure of the launch aircraft to enemy air defenses and lowering the operational risk for pilots.
Earlier this year, Safran unveiled a new dual-mode seeker for the AASM HAMMER. The same guidance technology is also expected to be used in France's Thundart multiple launch rocket system, which is being developed as a French counterpart to HIMARS. Meanwhile, India has also expressed interest in localizing production of the AASM HAMMER.
Read more: Long-Range AASM Hammer Bombs Used by Ukraine Against russian Forces Receive New Seeker, Becoming Even More Effective
