France Boosts Maritime Security with New Falcon 2000 LXS Albatros Order

France strengthens its maritime security with new Albatros aircraft. The advanced, long-endurance patrol planes will bolster France's ability to protect its vast maritime zones and respond to various threats and emergencies.

, and Administrator

2025 October 2 . 6:06 AM

1 min read

In this picture there are ships on the water at the bottom side of the image and there are... — In this picture there are ships on the water at the bottom side of the image and there are vehicles, trees, poles, aircraft, and buildings in the background area of the image.

France Boosts Maritime Security with New Falcon 2000 LXS Albatros Order

France has bolstered its maritime surveillance capabilities with a new order. The Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) has commissioned Dassault Aviation to deliver five more Falcon 2000 LXS Albatros aircraft for the AVSIMAR program. This expands the French fleet to 12 Albatros aircraft, enhancing France's sovereignty across its vast maritime zones.

The Albatros, based on a business jet platform, is optimized for long-endurance maritime patrols and intervention. It is equipped with advanced mission equipment, including a SearchMaster AESA radar from Thales, a Safran Euroflir 410 optronic turret, and a mission system developed by Naval Group. SATCOM links enable real-time data sharing, reinforcing the French Navy's surveillance capability.

The first Albatros prototype began testing in January 2025, demonstrating its readiness for service. The new aircraft will support missions such as fisheries patrols, anti-smuggling operations, pollution monitoring, and maritime security. They will also be equipped for search and rescue, able to detect distress beacons, drop survival kits, and mark areas with smoke or flares. Deliveries will be phased to ensure a smooth transition from the legacy fleet, with initial operational capability planned for late 2026.

The order, placed on September 26, 2025, follows an initial 2020 contract that included an option for five more aircraft. This expansion underscores France's commitment to strengthening its maritime security at a time when global stability increasingly depends on robust naval surveillance.