Overview

• The DGA placed the order on September 26, 2025, exercising a 2020 option to add five aircraft to the initial seven.
• The Albatros jets will replace the French Navy’s Falcon 50M and Falcon 200 Gardian aircraft as older platforms retire.
• Based on the Falcon 2000 LXS, the aircraft carry Thales’ SearchMaster AESA radar, a Safran Euroflir 410 turret, Naval Group’s mission system, and SATCOM links.
• The first prototype flew in January 2025 and is testing at the DGA’s Istres center, with initial operational capability targeted for late 2026 and phased deliveries planned.
• The DGA cites a 10–30% gain in range and endurance plus dedicated search-and-rescue equipment, and the effort runs alongside France’s A321 MPA PATMAR program.