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France’s newly unveiled Thundart multiple-launch rocket system could undergo battlefield testing in Ukraine, according to French Aid to Europe, which cited unnamed sources.
The system is being developed by MBDA and Safran as a replacement for the aging LRU launchers currently operated by the French Armed Forces. While the LRU is mounted on a tracked chassis, Thundart uses an eight-wheel-drive Scania platform.
The new launcher was first presented in early 2026. Its first launch of a long-range munition took place at the end of April.
Thundart is designed to fire 227-millimeter guided rockets and is compatible with ammunition used by the M270 LRU system. Its stated maximum range is 150 kilometers, although developers plan to extend that figure to 500 kilometers by 2035.
Military analysts believe that any deployment of Thundart to Ukraine for testing could primarily serve promotional purposes. Western arms manufacturers have previously used the conflict to demonstrate and market new artillery, missile and armored systems.
Some weapons have been tested directly on the front line. Others, including Germany’s KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle, were evaluated away from the immediate combat zone.
The French Defense Ministry, MBDA and Safran have not officially announced plans to send Thundart prototypes to Ukraine.
Ukraine, however, has already launched the Testing in Ukraine program under the Brave1 defense platform. The initiative invites foreign manufacturers to submit prototype weapons for evaluation under real combat conditions. Developers receive a detailed report on the equipment’s front-line performance after the trials.