France has taken an important step in the modernization of its infantry forces by delivering 1,000 reconnaissance microdrones to the Army.
This equipment is part of the program “ fighter drone », created to provide direct aerial observation to small units on the ground, without depending on the resources of higher echelons. The first batch will already be used during Exercise ORION 2026focused on high-intensity operations.
Weighing only 1.8 kg, with a range of more than two kilometers and an autonomy of up to 40 minutes, these drones enable real-time surveillance over large areas or difficult terrain, day or night. Equipped with optronic sensors and infrared cameras, the systems significantly improve soldiers’ situational awareness during reconnaissance, security and movement 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 with the French company Harmattan AI. The process took place less than a year after the European call for tenders and benefited from simplified conditions as well as strong coordination between government and industry, reducing traditional deadlines for military purchases.
Produced entirely in France, with the participation of LYNRED for the supply of thermal cameras, these drones reflect the French strategy aimed at strengthening industrial sovereignty in defense. The program also aims to standardize the use of light drones among infantry units, following lessons from recent conflicts which have shown the importance of this equipment for reconnaissance on the battlefield.
Source : Defence Blog | Photo: X @CEMAT_FR | This content was created with the help of AI and proofread 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
