Innovative System Debuts at Paris Air Show with Capabilities to Protect Critical Assets
At the recent Paris Air Show, Thales and KNDS France introduced the RAPIDFire Land, a cutting-edge, remotely operated land-based defense platform designed to safeguard French airbases both domestically and overseas. Developed in collaboration with the French Air and Space Force, this system aims to provide a versatile and robust shield against drone swarms, helicopters, light aircraft, and missile threats.
Powered by the Advanced 40mm Telescoped Canon
Central to RAPIDFire Land is the 40mm Cased Telescoped Canon, originally developed over a decade ago for the Jaguar armored vehicle by CTA International—a joint venture of KNDS Systems and BAE Systems. The cannon’s compatibility with all telescoped ammunition types allows it to sustain multiple intercepts—up to dozens—without reloading, thanks to a magazine capacity of 140 ready-to-fire rounds. Among these, the upcoming A3B airburst round is set to enhance the system’s anti-air capabilities by 2027.
The Power of Airburst Technology
According to joint statements from Thales and KNDS, the A3B round explodes mid-air, dispersing dozens of tungsten sub-projectiles over a wide area. This technology aims to neutralize a broad spectrum of threats, including mini- and micro-drones, helicopters, low-flying aircraft, subsonic missiles, and even RAM threats. Its effectiveness increases with range, creating a large lethal zone for aerial threats.
Versatile Ammunition for Varied Threats
In addition to the A3B, RAPIDFire is equipped with four other types of ammunition:
- CT Point Detonating – Tracer (GPR-PD-T): Penetrates 210mm of reinforced concrete at 1,000m.
- CT Armour-Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot – Tracer (APFSDS-T): Fully perforates 140mm of RHA at 1,500m.
- AirBurst – Tracer (GPR-AB-T): Contains a 1kg explosive that disperses tungsten sub-projectiles.
- Target Practice (TP-T): Used for training and calibration.
Advanced Fire Control and Deployment Options
The system’s fire control integrates target tracking and real-time recalibration after each shot, accounting for target movement and environmental factors. With a maximum range of 4 km, RAPIDFire requires only two operators, handling target engagement and firing commands, making it highly efficient and reducing manpower needs.
Flexible Deployment Formats
Thales and KNDS France are offering two configurations: a semi-mobile system mounted on a 20-foot platform for fixed site defense, and a fully mobile version mounted on a vehicle to protect assets in operational settings. Both are designed for rapid deployment and high mobility.
Order and Deployment Highlights
The French procurement agency, DGA, has placed an initial firm order for 14 units, with an option for an additional 34. All units are earmarked for the French Navy. Two units are already operational aboard the fleet replenishment ship BRF Jacques Chevallier, completing multiple deployments and live-fire exercises within the Carrier Strike Group. Two more have been recently added to the BRF Jacques Stosskopf, with plans to install a fifth system on the upcoming offshore patrol vessel Trolley de Prévaux, scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2033.
Conclusion
With its combination of advanced ammunition, remote operation, and flexible deployment options, RAPIDFire Land represents a significant leap forward in land-based air and missile defense. Its current deployment within the French Navy underscores its credibility and strategic importance in modern asset protection.
