France and Belgium Collaborate on Strategic MRL Acquisition

Overview of the Procurement Initiative

In a notable shift towards enhancing artillery capabilities, France is embarking on a procurement plan for a Multiple Rocket Launcher (MRL) system, which will involve collaboration with Belgium. This initiative, revealed during the Defence iQ Future Artillery 2025 conference in London, is designed to modernize France’s artillery assets while simultaneously integrating Belgian forces into the program.

Objectives of the MRL Procurement

The French Ministry of Defence (MoD) is actively pursuing a sovereign solution to replace its aging inventory of Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS). The current strategic posture is to assess options including:

• Commissioning studies from two competing consortiums
• Purchasing MRL systems from existing stock, thereby accelerating integration into service

This initiative underscores France’s commitment to developing a self-sufficient defense infrastructure while fostering bilateral military collaboration with Belgium.

Bilateral Military Integration: The CaMo Initiative

The integration of Belgian and French military resources is facilitated through the Capacité Motorisée (CaMo) program. This bilateral framework is pivotal for joint procurement and operational interoperability, covering:

• Vehicles and systems:
  • Jaguar armored reconnaissance vehicles
  • Griffon multi-role armored vehicles (including variants for artillery observation)
  • CAESAR self-propelled howitzers

By utilizing shared systems such as the Système d’Information du Combat SCORPION (SICS) battle management software and the ATLAS artillery command system, both armies are significantly enhancing their operational coherence. The emphasis on common technologies mitigates communication gaps and streamlines joint tactical operations.

Future Developments and Vehicle Evolution

Belgium’s involvement extends beyond mere participation; it also plays a significant role in the configuration management of SCORPION vehicles. Furthermore, the collaboration includes:

• Development of Griffon engineering vehicles
• Joint acquisition of Véhicule Blindé d’Aide à l’Engagement (VBAE) light tactical vehicles

This multifaceted approach, with joint procurement expected within this decade, reflects a strategic alignment between the two nations, enhancing collective defense capabilities amid evolving security challenges in Europe.

Current Artillery Status

The urgency of this procurement is accentuated by the current state of French artillery assets, which now stand at only nine MLRS platforms following the donation of four units to Ukraine. As such, the French Army’s need for modernization is not only strategic but also operationally critical, necessitating swift action in strengthening its artillery firepower.

Strategic Implications

The collaboration between France and Belgium not only improves their individual military capabilities but also serves to bolster EU defense initiatives. By leaning on joint technological development and shared operational frameworks, both nations are positioning themselves to respond more effectively to external threats.

In summary, the bilateral efforts in artillery modernization signify a commitment to enhance regional security, foster defense cooperation, and ensure a robust response capability in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

For detailed insights and ongoing updates, refer to Janes’ resources on military integration initiatives.