Automobile manufacturer Renault will produce strike drones in collaboration with defense company Turgis Gaillard. The drones, codenamed Chorus, are French counterparts to the long-range Shahed drones used by russia.
According to L'Usine Nouvelle, this project could pave the way for a 10-year contract with the French Directorate General of Armament. While the project's scope has not been disclosed, its cost could reach up to €1 billion.
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In addition to long-range strike capabilities, the Chorus UAV will be able to conduct reconnaissance missions. Renault is expected to roll out production at its plants in Le Mans and Cleon.
From Defense Express we would like to note this refers to the drones that former French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu promised to produce for Ukraine in the summer of 2025. At the time, questions were raised over employees' reluctance to fulfill such an order. However, the issue now appears to have been resolved.
As for the Chorus UAV, its ability to collect data and operate as a kamikaze drone could increase its cost. However, this can potentially be remedied. The Ukrainian An-196 Liutyi drone, which has proven itself in strikes against russia, has a somewhat similar development history. Perhaps the French design will be visually similar.
Overall, little is known about the new UAV beyond its similarity to the russian-Iranian Shahed/Geran drones, but details have emerged about Renault's partner, Turgis & Gaillard. It is actively involved in military technologies, especially drones and various products for military aviation.
Turgis Gaillard's most famous product is the heavy Aarok drone, which is to be manufactured in Ukraine. Development is still ongoing, and the UAV has already completed its first flight, though only under operator control so far.
It should be recalled that in the summer of 2025, French government officials announced not only the supply of drones, but also the launch of their production by Renault in Ukraine. At this time, it is unknown whether Chorus will be localized, as no official information has been provided.
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