Official announcement does not disclose quantity of Thundart systems and ammunition ordered by French Defense Ministry. However indicated is that by 2030 full operational autonomy of French military will be ensured. At same time known is French defense budget provides for procuring 26 Thundart systems.
For contract implementation, MBDA and Safran will form joint venture. It will manufacture and maintain Thundart, as well as develop system including export variant development.
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Worth recalling Thundart was created in quite tight timelines — from work start to first launch took 18 months. This was achieved through active use of already available components and developments.
For example, guidance and control system borrowed from Safran's AASM Hammer long-range bomb. Roxel, part of MBDA, is involved in solid-fuel engine production for American GMLRS missile and also overall has enormous experience in this sphere.
Regarding launcher, Thundart is currently demonstrated on Scania chassis, on which crane manipulator is installed for self-loading 8-missile package. System also uses Atlas digital fire control system adapted for new tasks, used on Caesar SPH.
For Ukraine, Thundart potentially looks maximally interesting. First, there was unofficial information that for testing this system in real combat, Defense Forces of Ukraine will receive it first. Such approach will enable verifying real effectiveness under countermeasure conditions, identifying possible deficiencies and Thundart teething problems.
Second, France decided to provide Ukraine with license for producing AASM Hammer precision long-range guided bombs. This opens path to participation in Thundart production as well, as this is already one of key precision Thundart missile components.
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