France's Defense Minister: Significant Military Advancements Expected in 2024

France is set to supply Ukraine with cutting-edge kamikaze drones currently being developed in Paris within the upcoming weeks. This was announced by Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu in an interview with the Journal du Dimanche. According to RIA Novosti, he stated, “It is very likely that in 2024 we will see significant success with new military capabilities. One such example pertains to the development of next-generation kamikaze drones, which is currently in the testing phase. Ukraine will be among the first to receive these drones in the coming weeks.”

Lecornu emphasized that this will also allow testing of the development on the battlefield. He added, “France is not at war with Russia, and aiding Ukraine is not complicity in the conflict.”

Additionally, Lecornu revealed that France is working on integrating artificial intelligence in the management of Caesar howitzers, which will enhance target destruction capabilities. He announced that in March, construction will begin on a powder production factory by Eurenco in the Dordogne department of western France, which will increase the annual production of 155 mm shells used in Caesar howitzers to 150,000. He reminded that since February, France has been supplying Ukraine with 3,000 such shells monthly.

The minister also noted that France intends to increase the production of smaller caliber shells that are currently being purchased abroad. He mentioned that in 2024, the French army will receive 253 Griffon armored vehicles, 45 Jaguar combat reconnaissance vehicles, 97 Serval vehicles, 13 Rafale fighters, and updated Mirage 2000s, as well as two Airbus A400M military transport aircraft, a new combat nuclear submarine, and a patrol ship.