France tests Dassault Falcon 8X Archange electronic intelligence aircraft

The French Air and Space Force has begun flight testing the Dassault Falcon 8X Archange, a new electronic intelligence (ELINT) aircraft. The prototype recently landed at Air Base 105 in Évreux, its future operational base.

Derived from the Falcon 8X business jet, the Archange is designed to perform electromagnetic intelligence (ROEM) by intercepting radar emissions and communication signals. It features the CUGE (Capacité Universelle de Guerre Électronique) system developed by Thales, which serves as the aircraft's electronic warfare brain.

Three aircraft are expected to enter service between 2028 and 2029, operated by the Escadron Électronique Aéroporté 1/54 Dunkerque. This new fleet will replace the aging Transall Gabriel and Sarigue NG, restoring France's strategic airborne reconnaissance and espionage capabilities.