France has tested a counterpart to HIMARS—the new FLP-t 150 missile system

Successful tests of new rockets, which could form the basis of a French counterpart to the HIMARS system, have taken place in France. The rocket in question is the FLP-t 150, which is being developed by Thales and ArianeGroup. It is intended to replace the obsolete M270 LRU multiple launch rocket systems.

According to Defense Express, the tests were conducted on May 5 in collaboration with the French Directorate of Armaments at the Île-du-Levant test site on an island in the Mediterranean Sea. The selected design, technologies, and performance characteristics were validated, with a range of up to 150 km.

It is also reported that additional tests from the X-Fire launcher are scheduled for the end of May.

Additionally, by the end of May, test firings are planned from the X-Fire launcher developed by Thales and Soframe. It will be compatible with both other French-developed munitions and foreign ammunition.

It is noted that the technology behind the FLP-t 150 rockets is derived from ballistic missiles. High-precision target engagement is also claimed under conditions of active use of suppression measures and electronic warfare.

Analysts point out that another Himars competitor—the Thundart MLRS, being developed by MBDA and Safran—was tested on April 14 at the same Île-du-Levant test range. It took 18 months from the start of development to the testing phase.

Both munitions have a range of 150 km, so the final winner will be determined based on the results of further tests and comparisons.

Meanwhile, by 2030, the French plan to order 13–26 launchers and a total of 300 missiles. Production volumes will not be as high without export contracts.
 

The U.S. used HIMARS systems for the first time to strike Iran’s navy.

Earlier, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said that the U.S. military is considering various ways to restore shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. He did not specify when or how this might be implemented.

Western media reported that Iran may have begun laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and warned of possible consequences. Donald Trump said that if the reports are confirmed, Tehran will face an “unprecedented” military response.

Additionally, the U.S. has, for the first time, restricted Israel from attacking Iran’s energy and oil sectors.