The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) awards MBDA the contract for the development of the ASN4G hypersonic missile
On June 2, 2026, the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) awarded MBDA the framework agreement and development contract for the fourth-generation nuclear air-to-surface missile (ASN4G).
It is expected to enter service around 2035. It will be operated by both the French Forces Aériennes Stratégiques and the Force Aéronavale Nucléaire. It will be carried by the Rafale F5.
The performance of the ASN4G, and in particular its hypersonic speed, will help maintain the credibility of airborne deterrence in the face of evolving threats.
In accordance with the Military Programming Law, the DGA is working on modernizing the airborne nuclear component. The ASN4G missile will replace the upgraded ASMPA missile currently in service.
A technological leap forward from previous systems, the ASN4G relies on technological and industrial expertise possessed by few countries in the world.
photo courtesy DGA
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On June 2, 2026, the French Defence Procurement Agency awarded MBDA a contract for the development of the ASN4G hypersonic missile, expected to enter service around 2035. This missile will be operated by the French strategic air forces and will replace the ASMPA missile. The ASN4G's hypersonic capabilities are intended to enhance airborne deterrence against evolving threats.
- The DGA awarded MBDA a contract for the ASN4G hypersonic missile on June 2, 2026.
- The ASN4G is expected to enter service around 2035.
- It will be operated by the French Forces Aériennes Stratégiques and the Force Aéronavale Nucléaire.
- The missile will replace the upgraded ASMPA missile currently in service.
- The ASN4G relies on advanced technology and expertise.