The French Air and Space Force has successfully fired the new MICA NG missile from a Rafale fighter jet. France’s defence procurement agency confirmed the test.
France’s defence procurement agency DGA confirmed the first live firing of MBDA’s MICA NG IR variant took place on 19 June over the Mediterranean test range. The missile, launched from a Rafale, successfully struck its target, validating key performance benchmarks.
The MICA NG features a dual-pulse motor and next-generation infrared seeker for extended range and improved target discrimination. An active radar variant equipped with an AESA seeker is also under development.
Initial deliveries of the MICA NG are planned to begin in 2026, with full-scale induction into French forces expected by 2031.
Author: Özgür Ekşi
