Safran and MSI to jointly develop counter-drone solutions for naval and land gun systems
France's Safran Electronics & Defense and Britain's MSI-Defence Systems will cooperate on counter-drone capabilities. A European NATO navy has already placed the first contract.
Safran Electronics & Defense, a French defence electronics company, and MSI-Defence Systems, a British gun-system manufacturer, will jointly develop and market capabilities for countering uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS, or counter-drone systems). Under the arrangement, Safran's optronic sights will be integrated into MSI's SEAHAWK naval and TERRAHAWK land gun systems.
The Franco-British partnership has already produced its first contract, placed by the navy of a European NATO member. The source does not name the country.
What the contract covers
Under the deal, Safran will supply sighting systems for SEAHAWK DS30M 30 mm gun mounts to be fitted on mine countermeasure vessels. Deliveries are scheduled for 2027.
Each mount will carry VIGEO, a version of Safran's stabilised gunner sight adapted for maritime use. VIGEO is attached directly to the gun and is designed to provide day and night target acquisition, laser ranging and fire control.
Part of a wider suite
VIGEO belongs to a C-UAS suite that also includes PASEO and VIGY 4. When combined with kinetic or laser-guided effectors, these systems can detect, track and neutralise threats.