Introduction to the Maritime Patrol Aircraft Project
The French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) has recently awarded a significant contract to Airbus Defence and Space, with Thales playing a crucial role as a key partner. This initiative is set to develop a successor to the venerable Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft. The contract initiation commences with a 24-month risk assessment study for the future Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA/Patmar) program. This program aims to modernize France’s maritime patrol capabilities significantly, with an expected replacement of the fleet of 18 Atlantique 2 (ATL2) aircraft by 2030.
Project Development and Goals
The agreement between the DGA, Airbus, and Thales builds on an architectural and feasibility study that started in late 2022. The primary objective is to develop a platform that enhances France’s maritime surveillance and defense capabilities. The A321 MPA, based on the Airbus A321XLR, has been identified as the potential successor. This aircraft is touted to become a ‘flying frigate,’ equipped to handle a broad spectrum of maritime missions, from anti-submarine warfare to playing a role in France’s oceanic component of nuclear deterrence.
Jean-Brice Dumont, Executive Vice President, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space, emphasized the suitability of the A321 MPA for these roles. According to Dumont, the aircraft will offer the required autonomy, availability, and reliability that are crucial for such critical defense roles.
Technical Specifications and Enhancements
The A321 MPA leverages the certified Airbus A321XLR platform, which entered service in November 2024 with Iberia. Though the commercial variant is designed for long-haul flights, modifications are necessary to meet stringent military requirements. These include enhanced maneuverability at low altitudes and the integration of advanced weaponry and surveillance systems.
Thales contributes cutting-edge technology with an array of sensors including an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and sophisticated acoustic systems featuring both passive and active sonar buoys. Additional capabilities include electronic and electro-optical warfare technologies, a magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) sensor, and robust self-protection systems.
To meet its combat roles, the A321 MPA will be equipped with a comprehensive suite of communication systems, including satellite communications. It will also carry torpedoes and the future anti-ship missile (FMAN), housed in a sizable ammunition bay under the fuselage.
Program Milestones and Future Outlook
Introduced at the Euronaval 2024 trade show in Paris, the A321 MPA is scheduled to gradually replace the aging Atlantique 2 fleet stationed at Lann-Bihoué naval air base between 2030 and 2040. While the French Ministry of the Armed Forces has not officially confirmed the contract award, reports from November 2024 suggest a preference for Airbus Defence & Space over Dassault Aviation.
Dassault Aviation had proposed a militarized version of its Falcon 10X business jet, known for its speed and agility. Despite Dassault’s extensive experience in maritime operations with its Falcon series, the selection committee favored Airbus’ proposal, likely due to the A321XLR’s superior payload capacity and Airbus’ proven expertise in military aircraft conversions, exemplified by the Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) program based on the A330.