France has unveiled a cutting-edge multi-domain weapons testing facility designed to assess air, land, and naval systems under realistic combat conditions. Located in Cazaux and operated by the country’s defense procurement agency (DGA) through its Flight Test and Expertise Center, this facility marks a significant advancement in France’s defense capabilities.
The new CALAMAR range integrates various testing environments, including airspace, ground ranges, and lake zones, enabling comprehensive evaluations of weapon performance from launch to impact. This multifaceted approach allows for rigorous testing of a range of military platforms, including fighter jets like the Rafale and Mirage 2000, Tiger attack helicopters, guided rockets, precision munitions, and optical targeting systems.
DGA officials emphasized that the CALAMAR facility is particularly beneficial for studying how different weapons interact with diverse terrains and environmental factors. The data collected during tests directly feeds into next-generation armament programs, improving the effectiveness and reliability of French military technologies.
Moreover, DGA highlighted that the site enhances France’s “sovereign capability” to independently test and certify its military technologies, reducing reliance on foreign facilities and expertise.
The introduction of CALAMAR is part of France’s ongoing efforts to modernize its defense testing infrastructure. In response to increasing demands for high-fidelity testing environments, the DGA has expanded its facilities nationwide. The DGA Missiles Testing Center at Biscarrosse continues to conduct trials for ballistic and hypersonic weapons, while the DGA Naval Systems site in Toulon focuses on evaluating undersea sensors and shipborne weaponry. Additionally, the DGA Essais de Missiles range in Landes has been upgraded to include extended radar coverage and telemetry links for long-range missile and interceptor testing.
This strategic enhancement in testing capabilities not only strengthens France’s military readiness but also positions it as a leader in defense technology innovation within Europe and beyond.
