Image: Airbus
The French Defence Procurement Agency (Direction Générale de l'Armement / DGA) has entered into a 24-month contract with Airbus Defence and Space as the prime contractor, alongside Thales, to conduct a risk-assessment study for the future A321 MPA (Maritime Patrol Aircraft) programme. This contract builds upon the architecture and feasibility study initiated at the end of 2022.
The primary goal of the new study and risk-assessment contract is to prepare for the development and production of the maritime patrol aircraft programme, which is expected to begin by the end of 2026. The contract will advance the findings of the previous architecture study, refine the economic and industrial conditions for the programme, guide technical choices for the aircraft's systems, and include the first wind-tunnel tests.
The A321 MPA is a military version of the Airbus A321XLR, designed to meet the operational needs of the French Navy. It will primarily focus on anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, as well as intelligence gathering, with capabilities suitable for both low and high-intensity missions. It is set to replace the French Navy's current fleet of Atlantique 2 aircraft around the 2030-2040 timeframe.
The A321 MPA will offer long-range and high-manoeuvrability capabilities, including at low altitudes. The aircraft will be equipped with a range of maritime-specific sensors, with Thales contributing significantly to the sensor systems. These include a radar with active antennas, an acoustic system that utilises passive and active sonar buoys, electronic and electro-optical warfare systems, magnetic anomaly detection (MAD), and self-protection systems. It will also carry communications systems, including satellite communications, and will be armed with torpedoes and the future anti-ship missile (FMAN). The aircraft's large cargo bay and open mission system architecture provide flexibility to evolve throughout its lifecycle to address emerging threats.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Executive Vice President and Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, stated: "The A321 MPA has all the assets to become a true flying frigate capable of responding to the wide range of missions entrusted to the French maritime patrol." He further noted that Airbus offers a sovereign solution that ensures the required autonomy, availability, and reliability for contributing to the oceanic component of the nuclear deterrence.
Airbus Defence and Space's extensive experience in converting commercial aircraft into military versions underpins the A321 MPA’s design. The company has a proven track record with the A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT), which holds over 90% of the world market (excluding the United States). Additionally, Airbus has expertise in integrating sensors and mission systems on various aircraft models, including the P3, C295, and CN235, with more than 170 such aircraft in service across different maritime patrol and surveillance configurations.
The A321 MPA is expected to benefit from the operational success of the A320 Family, the world’s best-selling single-aisle aircraft, which has more than 10,000 aircraft in service and over 300 million flight hours. This proven track record ensures the A321 MPA’s reliability, availability, and low maintenance costs throughout its operational life.
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