The Thales Ground Fire air surveillance and air defence radar, intended for the French version of the new Franco-Italian SAMP/T NG medium- to long-range air defence system, has been in full series production since the start of 2025, Thales announced on 3 October 2025.
Series production was implemented following successful conclusion of factory acceptance tests in the presence of representatives from the French Armaments Directorate (DGA).
Eight Ground Fire air defence radars will be delivered to French armed forces from 2026, where they will replace the Arabel radar system currently in service with the SAMP/T system, thus maximising the performance of the SAMP/T NG system’s Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles.
Based on fully digital multiple beamforming active electronically scanned-array (AESA) technology in the S-band, the Ground Fire radar “delivers high performance in the detection, tracking, and classification of numerous targets, even in challenging environments such as mountainous regions and densely crowded airspaces”, according to Thales. The radar offers a one-second refresh rate, with a surveillance range of 400 km, 360° azimuth coverage, and a full 90° elevation coverage. It is capable of detecting targets from drones to ballistic missiles while maintaining the mobility of a tactical radar.
“The Ground Fire’s 360° full elevation performance detection meets forces’ needs to stay alert on all fronts with a full recognised air picture,” Thales stated.
The SAMP/T NG programme is supervised by the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR) for the French Armed Forces Ministry and the DGA. The prime contractor is Eurosam for the overall system, with Thales providing several components, including the fire control unit based on the Ground Fire radar.
“The Ground Fire, designed and produced in Europe, will contribute to a robust European air defence system,” Eric Huber, vice president for surface radars at Thales, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “We have implemented all the necessary processes to accelerate industrial production, tripling radar production in our factory in Limours from 2022 to 2024 and increasing the robustness of our supply chain and partner eco-system, to ensure swift on-time delivery to contribute to air surveillance and air defence of European nations.”
