The Archange SIGINT (Signals Intelligence) aircraft, which will advance France’s defence capabilities, has completed its maiden flight at Dassault Aviation’s facilities. The aircraft is being developed for the French Air and Space Force (FASF) and was officially announced by France’s Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu.
This development marks a major milestone in the Archange programme, approved under France’s 2024–2030 defence strategy. A total of three aircraft are scheduled to be delivered by 2030, replacing the ageing Transall C-160G Gabriel fleet.
Next-Generation Surveillance Platform Based on the Falcon 8X
The new Archange aircraft are based on the Dassault Falcon 8X business jet and are equipped with the CUGE (Capacité Universelle de Guerre Électronique) system developed by French defence technology giant Thales. This system:
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Detects radar emissions
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Analyses communication signals
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Processes and transmits intelligence data in real time with AI-supported capabilities
An antenna array integrated under a specially designed fuselage fairing allows the aircraft to conduct highly accurate intelligence-gathering missions.
France’s Strategic SIGINT Capability Reinforced
Archange is not only a technologically advanced platform, but also a strategic solution designed to fill the intelligence gap left by the retirement of the C-160G Gabriel aircraft. Current systems — including CERES reconnaissance satellites, ASTAC pods on Mirage 2000D fighters, Beechcraft 350 ALSR aircraft, and AWACS platforms — can only partially bridge this gap.
With Archange entering service, France will significantly strengthen its SIGINT capabilities, particularly amid rising geopolitical tensions with Russia.
Advanced Technology: FalconEye and Digital Flight Control System
The aircraft features a digital flight control system derived from Dassault’s Mirage and Rafale programmes, and the FalconEye combined vision system, which merges data from six sensors. This ensures operational effectiveness even in poor visibility conditions.
Based on the Dassault Falcon 8X, the Archange can carry 8 passengers and 3 crew members over a range of up to 12,000 km, making it ideal for long-duration missions.
Deliveries and Future Outlook
Thales and Dassault began their cooperation on the production and delivery of the first two aircraft following a contract signed in December 2019. While the third aircraft has yet to be officially ordered, increasing intelligence demands suggest that it is likely to be procured.
The Archange programme offers the French Armed Forces a comprehensive solution that includes training, technical support, and operational readiness.
