Latest news with #FranckSaudo
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
France to ramp up AASM Hammer smart bomb production for Ukraine, media reports
France plans to manufacture 1,200 AASM Hammer guided air bombs in 2025, up from 830 units produced in 2024, Le Parisien, a French daily newspaper, reported on May 2. The French-made precision bombs are being transferred to Ukraine as part of ongoing defense support, and their use by Ukrainian fighter jets has grown significantly since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. The AASM Hammer, developed by French company Safran, has become a weapon of choice for Ukraine's air force thanks to its high accuracy and resistance to Russian electronic warfare, according to Le Parisien. The French government asked Safran to integrate surface-to-air missile systems (SAM) onto Ukrainian fighter jets after American JDAM GPS-guided munitions failed to hit targets. Safran reportedly completed the integration "in less than four months in the fall of 2023," enabling precise targeting from Ukraine's Soviet-era jets. Safran's CEO Franck Saudo highlighted the system's resistance to GPS jamming and compatibility with Ukrainian MiG and Su aircraft. Saudo explained that the module feature protects the bombs from Russian GPS jamming and guarantees high target accuracy. The French Defense Ministry confirmed earlier that the bombs can be launched from Ukraine's existing aircraft fleet. According to Le Parisien, France currently supplies Ukraine with around 50 AASM bombs each month. The weapon entered service with the French military in 2008 and became standard for the Dassault Rafale, a French twin-engine, multirole fighter aircraft but has since been adapted for use on other aircraft, including the F-16 and Mirage 2000. Read also: French minister calls Putin 'sole obstacle' to peace as EU prepares 17th sanctions round, AFP reports We've been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Hi Dubai
20-02-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Calidus and Safran Electronics & Defence Sign Strategic MoU to Enhance Aerial Delivery in MENA
Calidus, a leading UAE-based defence manufacturer, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with France's Safran Electronics & Defence to enhance aerial delivery support services across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The collaboration aims to strengthen military and humanitarian logistics by integrating Calidus' regional expertise with Safran's advanced aerospace and avionics technologies. The partnership underscores the UAE's commitment to bolstering its defence infrastructure with world-class innovations. 'We are proud to partner with Safran to enhance air support capabilities and meet vital logistics needs in the MENA region,' said Dr. Khalifa Al Balooshi, CEO of Calidus. 'This aligns with our mission to deliver advanced defence solutions while supporting military and humanitarian efforts.' The joint effort will focus on the research, development, and deployment of cutting-edge aerial delivery systems. By leveraging Safran's expertise in mission-critical systems and Calidus' deep understanding of regional needs, the partnership promises reliable and efficient solutions for both military operations and disaster relief. 'Partnering with Calidus allows us to strengthen our commitment to the UAE and the MENA region,' said Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defence. 'Together, we aim to provide state-of-the-art technology that enhances operational effectiveness and supports growing defence and humanitarian demands.' With the aerial delivery market expanding due to increased military logistics and humanitarian missions, this MoU is set to address evolving challenges with innovative and flexible solutions. The companies will showcase their joint advancements at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, presenting their technology to global industry leaders. News Source: Emirates News Agency
