France has taken a major step in modernizing its infantry units by supplying the Army with 1,000 reconnaissance micro-drones.
The devices are part of the “fighter drone“, which was created to provide small units in the field with a direct aerial observation capability without having to rely on the assets of higher echelons of command. The first series will already be used in exercise ORION 2026focused on high-intensity operations.
The drones weigh just 1.8 kg, have a range of over two kilometers and an endurance of up to 40 minutes, enabling real-time surveillance over large areas or in hard-to-reach terrain, both day and night. They are equipped with optoelectronic sensors and infrared cameras, which significantly increases the situational awareness of soldiers during reconnaissance, security and planning missions.
The acquisition was carried out at an accelerated pace by the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) following an order placed in June 2025 by the French company Harmattan AI. The process, which took place less than a year after the European tender, involved simplified requirements and strong coordination between government and industry, shortening the traditional deadlines for military purchases.
The drones are fully manufactured in France, with LYNRED participating in the supply of thermal cameras. They thus reflect the French strategy of strengthening industrial sovereignty in the field of defense. The program also seeks to standardize the use of lightweight drones among infantry units, building on lessons from recent conflicts that have shown the importance of these devices for battlefield reconnaissance.
Source: Defence Blog | Photo: X @CEMAT_FR | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
In the days to come, 1000 French Sonora drones will be delivered to the regiments.
Efficient, equipped with AI, economical and easily repairable, they perfectly meet the need to equip each combat group for intensive use.
Soldiers of the@armeedeTerre : fly… pic.twitter.com/8Xuo5qTXk4
— Chief of Staff of the Army (@CEMAT_FR) January 21, 2026
