The French Army’s 2nd Armoured Brigade showcased new combat systems shaped by battlefield lessons from the war in Ukraine during an Innovation Day held on January 15, 2026, in Bitche, highlighting France’s push to rapidly adapt its ground forces for high-intensity warfare.
The event focused on technologies developed by brigade regiments over nearly two years, emphasizing systems already proven effective in Ukraine. These included fiber-optic guided drones, mobile fire support solutions, unmanned ground systems, and adaptive protection against strike drones. Military personnel, institutional partners, and defense industry representatives attended to accelerate the transition from experimentation to operational deployment.
Senior French Army leaders were present, including General Coquet, director of the Army Technical Section (STAT); General Do Tran, commander of the 7th Armored Brigade; General de Saint Victor, commander of the Intelligence and Cyber-Electronic Warfare Brigade; General Ozanne, commander of the 3rd Division; and General Baratz, responsible for future combat development.
According to the brigade, the showcased projects draw directly from Ukrainian combat practices, where rapid innovation, low-cost solutions, and decentralized adaptation have reshaped ground warfare. Officials noted that survivability now depends on speed, resistance to drones, and the ability to deliver firepower under constant aerial threat.
Among the systems presented was the TEMARA attack drone, an FPV platform guided by fiber-optic cable rather than radio control to defeat electronic warfare jamming. Designed for close-range strikes, it includes a secured firing mechanism for use in contested environments.
The brigade also unveiled RIC2RIC, a small teleoperated ground robot intended for reconnaissance and limited engagement ahead of manned units, reflecting Ukraine’s growing use of unmanned ground platforms. Another highlight was PAC 13, a 3D-printed anti-tank mine designed for rapid local production based on Ukrainian wartime manufacturing practices.
NTGS mobile mortar system
In fire support, the NTGS mobile mortar system was demonstrated. Compact and lightweight, NTGS can be deployed in under 45 seconds and fire six NATO-standard 120mm rounds in less than a minute, prioritizing mobility and survivability under drone observation.
Adaptive protection concepts for armoured vehicles were also reviewed, underscoring that traditional armor alone is no longer sufficient. Supported by close cooperation with the Saint-Louis Institute, the brigade aims to scale selected systems beyond prototypes as it prepares for peer-level, drone-saturated combat environments.
Source: Defence Blog
