France aims to deploy combat-ready robots by 2040, with early prototypes already undergoing battlefield testing.

BEYNES, France (May 8) — France is on track to field battle-ready robots by 2040, according to military officials and technology partners involved in a recent collaborative exercise that brought together engineers, researchers, and defense contractors.

“We expect to have advanced prototypes within three years, with the first ground robotic systems ready for deployment,” said General Bruno Baratz, the French Army’s head of future combat programs.

During the multi-week event west of Paris — the third of its kind since the 2040 goal was set in 2020 — robotic systems equipped with legs, wheels, and tracks navigated obstacles and simulated traps to test their combat viability and ability to secure positions.

“Robots already play a vital role in unit protection, from surveillance to mine clearance,” said General Tony Maffeis, head of the army’s technical division, at the CoHoMa (Collaboration-Man-Machine) challenge. “The next step is proving their effectiveness in direct contact with the enemy.”

“The robot must enhance combat capabilities, not hinder them,” he added, highlighting the technical hurdles that remain, particularly in traversing difficult terrain.

According to participant Baptiste Lepelletier, such exercises are essential: “It gets us out of the lab and into real-world mission scenarios.”

Ukraine war drives rapid development

Although France began exploring ground robotics in 2021, the ongoing war in Ukraine has drastically accelerated innovation — especially as drones, which are more accessible and cost-effective, reshape modern warfare.

“Ground robotics is progressing quickly in Ukraine, but the field remains technically challenging and underdeveloped,” noted General Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army. “It’s vital to assess their practical value.”

A key limitation is that ground robots typically require aerial drones to scout terrain and guide navigation. French defense company Thales showcased a robot equipped with a drone launch pad for this purpose.

The military has already implemented findings from past CoHoMa challenges and anticipates more significant advances soon. However, initial use cases for these robots will focus on logistics — such as drone-led convoys and robotic pack mules — before they are integrated into frontline combat. — AFP