France 

France advances its medium-range defence capabilities with the Veloce 330, a cutting-edge loitering munition achieving speeds of up to 400 km/h. The LARINAE programme underscores France's commitment to technological edge and military autonomy in modern warfare.

In a significant stride towards bolstering its military autonomy and technological prowess, France has made notable progress in the development of indigenous loitering munition systems. Spearheaded by the Agence de l’Innovation de Défense (AID) and the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA), the LARINAE programme stands as a testament to France's commitment to enhancing its medium-range defence arsenal.

The recent test conducted by EOS Technologie marks a milestone achievement within the LARINAE programme. The loitering munition, named 'Veloce 330,' showcased remarkable speeds of up to 400 km/h during its rigorous testing phase. This achievement underscores the efficacy and potential of French innovation in military technology.

Central to the objectives of the LARINAE programme is the development of remote-operated ammunition systems capable of engaging armored targets within a 50-kilometer radius while maintaining prolonged flight duration exceeding an hour. Such capabilities align closely with France’s strategic imperative to strengthen its defence capabilities in the face of evolving threats in modern warfare scenarios.

The selection of two promising projects from a pool of 16 submissions by the AID highlights the robust collaborative efforts within the French defence industrial base. Notably, the consortium led by EOS Technologie, alongside Nexter Arrowtech (now operating under KNDS Ammo France) and TRAAK, signifies a cohesive partnership driving innovation in defence technology.

The successful completion of the third phase of testing by the Veloce 330 underscores its efficiency and performance. With speeds surpassing 250 miles per hour and covering 30 miles in just 16 minutes on half a tank of fuel, the Veloce 330 demonstrates its effectiveness in meeting the stringent requirements of modern military operations.

Importantly, the Veloce 330 represents a significant advancement in indigenous loitering munition technology, crafted entirely in France. This underscores the nation’s commitment to leading innovations in military technology and maintaining strategic autonomy in defence capabilities.

While showcasing remarkable capabilities, the Veloce 330 also draws comparisons with international counterparts such as the Iranian Shahed 238. Known for its rapid deployment and high-speed operations, the Shahed series has gained global recognition for its role in various conflicts, highlighting the global relevance of advancements in loitering munition technology.

In conclusion, France’s progress in the LARINAE programme, particularly exemplified by the achievements of the Veloce 330, underscores the nation’s dedication to advancing indigenous defence capabilities. As technology continues to evolve, such initiatives are instrumental in ensuring France's readiness to address emerging security challenges and maintain its position at the forefront of military innovation.