Strategic Advancement in Naval Uncrewed Systems: A Collaborative Framework

Paris, France—June 17, 2025
In a significant development for naval defense capabilities, Sébastien Lecornu, the French Minister for the Armed Forces, has formalized a strategic partnership with significant industry figures: Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters, and Marie-Laure Bourgeois, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Naval Group. This framework agreement is designed to facilitate the future procurement of the Systèmes de Drone Aérien pour la Marine (SDAM), an innovative suite of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) tailored for naval operations.

Innovative UAS Technology Integration

The SDAM will consist predominantly of the Airbus VSR700 UAS, which will be seamlessly integrated with the advanced Steeris Mission System developed by Naval Group. This collaborative effort draws on 15 years of extensive research and development, emphasizing enhanced operational efficacy for modern naval combat environments. Notably, Naval Group will oversee the integration of the SDAMs onto French Navy frigates, ensuring optimal utilization of the technology.

Key Features of the VSR700:

• Versatile System: Designed for multiple operational contexts.
• Autonomous Functionality: Capable of take-off and landing in challenging sea states and electromagnetic conditions.
• Extended Duration: Capable of flying for over eight hours while carrying a range of sensors.

Catalyzing International Collaboration

This partnership also opens avenues for global cooperation. The French Armament General Directorate (DGA) has extended invitations to partner nations to join this venture, enabling them to procure the system via government-to-government contracts. This approach not only enhances collective naval capabilities but also fosters a cooperative defense ecosystem that extends beyond national boundaries.

Optimizing Naval Operational Capabilities

“Today’s agreement marks a pivotal moment for the VSR700 initiative,” asserted Bruno Even, highlighting the system’s proven effectiveness demonstrated during multiple sea trials, including exercises aboard a French Navy frigate. Even noted the initiative’s potential to cultivate a sovereign UAS ecosystem that delivers strategic advantages to allied forces worldwide.

Further underscoring this sentiment, Pierre Eric Pommellet, Chairman and CEO of Naval Group, remarked on the extensive teamwork that has made this collaboration possible. He emphasized Naval Group’s proficiency in seamlessly integrating diverse drone technologies aboard surface vessels, a capability that significantly enhances operational readiness for navy clients.

Advanced Surveillance Configuration

The operational model being developed for the French Navy focuses primarily on surveillance and intelligence-gathering missions. Each serial VSR700 is specified to include:

• Advanced radar technology
• High-resolution electro-optical systems
• Automatic Identification System (AIS) receivers

These enhancements position the VSR700 as a critical asset for future naval engagements.

As defense infrastructure evolves in response to emerging challenges, the SDAM initiative stands as a testament to innovation and collaboration in modern military strategy. By aligning national priorities with collaborative international efforts, this framework seeks not only to enhance the French Navy’s capabilities but also to set a benchmark in uncrewed system integration across global maritime forces.

The implications of this program are profound, potentially transforming how naval operations are conducted and sustained in increasingly complex environments.