Equipped with Hellfire missiles, the French Air and Space Force's MQ-9A Reapers will be deployed in the fight against drones. (opex360.com)

• MQ-9A Reaper fleet updated to Block 5 configuration.
• Hellfire missiles successfully repurposed for counter-UAS operations.
• Operational validation completed by the CEAM.

"The French Air and Space Force has upgraded its MQ-9A Reaper MALE drones to the Block 5 standard, enabling them to engage in counter-drone missions. Trials conducted by the Military Air Expertise Center (CEAM) demonstrate that the platform can now effectively employ Hellfire missiles to neutralize hostile UAVs, expanding the strategic utility of these surveillance assets."