Last week, statements at the Paris Defense and Strategy Forum brought to the agenda important developments in Europe’s capacity to suppress enemy long-range air defense systems. Experts stated that MBDA’s new high-speed and maneuverable missile will significantly improve Europe’s defense capacity in this area by 2033. However, it was stated that the French Air Force currently lacks such a capability and that upgrading Rafale jets with MBDA’s RJ10 missile will address this deficiency.
MBDA's RJ10 Missile and New Tech Upgrades
MBDA continues to develop long-range strike capabilities with the aim of overcoming enemy air defences in Europe. The RJ10 missile is part of the French-British Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon project, which aims to neutralise enemy air defences. Pierre-Marie Belleau, who oversees MBDA’s deep strike portfolio, said the RJ10 missile will operate at high supersonic speeds, while maintaining its manoeuvrability. This technology promises to provide a more effective solution to the limitations of current air defence systems. The RJ10 is also planned to be delivered simultaneously with the Rafale F5 standard.
SEAD Capability and Future Missile Developments
The French Air Force retired its radar-guided AS.1990 Martel missiles in the late 37s, leaving the country without anti-radar capabilities. However, the development of MBDA's RJ10 missile will allow France to regain SEAD (Combat Electronic Attack and Defense) capabilities. In the future, the missile will be used as a primary means of suppressing enemy air defenses. However, the missile's delivery schedule has been set to be compatible with the Rafale F5 standard, but no specific date has been given.
Common European Defense Strategies and Alliances
France, together with Germany, Italy, Poland and other European countries, is working on the European Long-Range Attack Approach (ELSA) project. This project will include a land-launched version of a naval cruise missile and will strengthen France’s defense capabilities. Kubala said they expect the ELSA projects to take concrete shape in the coming months. These partnerships play an important role in developing Europe’s long-range strike capabilities, and these missile development efforts will strengthen the allies’ common defense strategies.
New Generation Air Defense Systems and Global Competition
In recent years, integrated air defense systems have undergone a major evolution, with significant improvements in range, detection and interception capabilities. These developments demonstrate that Europe needs more powerful and technologically advanced missiles. Kubala and Gorremans noted that not only fighter jets but also cruise missiles can overcome air defense systems. This will question the reliability of current air defense systems and reshape future defense strategies.
Europe’s new missile and defense strategies against long-range air defense systems aim to increase the continent’s defense capabilities. MBDA’s RJ10 missile will be a major step forward when the French Air Force restores its SEAD capabilities by 2033. However, these developments will require more time and international cooperation to come to fruition. Europe will make significant progress in overcoming enemy air defenses, and with the support of its allies, it will be better prepared for future war scenarios.
