France has ordered 17 Giraffe 1X radars from Sweden’s Saab to strengthen its short-range air defence and counter-drone capabilities. The contract was signed by France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) in partnership with Saab and Scania France.
Of the total acquired, 16 radars will be installed on Scania V3P Vampire tactical vehicles developed in France, while one unit will be used for testing and evaluation, according to the Ukrainian outlet Militarnyi. The agreement also includes spare parts, training and logistical support. Deliveries are expected to take place between 2026 and 2027.
“We are proud to work together with Scania France on this important contract, with the aim of modernising short-range and very short-range air defence capabilities for the French Armed Forces,” said Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab’s Surveillance business area.
The Giraffe 1X is a compact 3D radar designed for low-altitude air defence, drone detection, site protection and surveillance of fast-moving, small-sized threats. The system is software-based, allowing constant updates to keep pace with new threats on the battlefield.
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Also according to Militarnyi, the new radars will be part of France’s efforts to strengthen its capabilities against FPV drones, loitering munitions and low-altitude aircraft, a growing concern after recent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Photo: Saab. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
