France Strengthens Tactical Edge with Combat-Ready Akeron RCX 50 Loitering Drone.

On May 19, 2025, the French Ministry of Armed Forces released a video on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing the first successful tests of the Akeron RCX50 loitering munition. Developed by MBDA France in collaboration with Novadem, this rotary-wing drone represents a major milestone in modernizing French battlefield capabilities and strategic defense autonomy.
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The Akeron RCX50 is part of MBDA’s expanded Akeron family, which now includes two attack drones, RCX50 and RCH170, and the versatile Akeron MP and LP missiles, known for their beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) strike capabilities (Picture source: French MoD)

The tests by the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) validated the RCX50’s ability to carry and deploy a live payload with precision against a designated target. This achievement confirms its operational potential in complex and high-risk environments, where rapid, accurate engagement is crucial.

First unveiled at SOFINS 2025, the Akeron RCX50 is part of MBDA’s expanded Akeron family, which now includes two attack drones, RCX50 and RCH170, and the versatile Akeron MP and LP missiles, known for their beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) strike capabilities. The RCX50 is based on Novadem’s proven NX70 platform, with compact folded dimensions of 510 x 510 x 220 mm, allowing a single soldier to carry it easily. It has a flight endurance of 40 minutes, a top speed of 54 km/h, and can deliver a 500-gram payload up to 5 kilometers away.

A standout feature of the RCX50 is its adaptability in urban combat zones. It can land in standby mode on a surface, shut down its rotors to conserve energy, and then take off again to strike once a target is acquired. This functionality is fully operational both day and night, thanks to integrated color and thermal imaging sensors.

Navigation relies on a dual system combining GNSS and inertial guidance, allowing it to operate effectively even under electronic warfare conditions. Target acquisition is managed via a tactile operator console, where visual confirmation is required before the munition executes the strike autonomously. According to the program manager, the drone does not yet incorporate artificial intelligence but uses image processing algorithms based on shape and contrast recognition.

To fast-track deployment, MBDA and Novadem have begun industrial production of the RCX50 before the final development phase concludes. A second round of testing is scheduled for late 2025, with initial deliveries expected in 2026.

In parallel, development continues on the Akeron RCH170, a fixed-wing loitering munition based on Delair’s Mutant XL platform. With a flight range of 50 km and 60 minutes of endurance, this drone is tailored for deep-strike missions. Flight tests are planned for summer 2025, with production targeted for late 2026.

The RCX50 program signals a strategic shift for France. In an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, loitering munitions like the Akeron series enhance precision strike capabilities while minimizing troop exposure. These technologies not only improve battlefield efficiency but also strengthen national defense autonomy.

By investing in domestic drone systems, France reduces its reliance on foreign suppliers and secures access to cutting-edge defense technologies tailored to national needs. This approach enables the French armed forces to adapt rapidly to evolving threats while pioneering new, dynamic military doctrines fit for future conflict scenarios.