France tests Damocles, its first domestic kamikaze drone

France has conducted live-fire testing for the Damocles, its first domestically produced kamikaze drone. Developed by the defense group KNDS and aerospace manufacturer Delair, the weapon was designed and built within a single year to strengthen national defense capabilities.

The drone features a flight autonomy of 40 minutes and is capable of striking targets, such as radar stations or moving armored vehicles, located up to 15 kilometers from its launch point. The French armed forces have already received 460 units of the remote-controlled system.

While the exact unit price remains classified, defense officials stated the cost is below 20,000 euros. Although more expensive than the improvised drones used in Ukraine, which cost approximately 600 euros, officials noted the Damocles offers superior precision and reliability. Defense contractors are preparing to scale production, with a goal of manufacturing 100 units per day starting in November.