French Air and Space Force Caracal Helicopter Conducts First Anti-Drone Firing Tests (opex360.com)

• First successful anti-drone firing from Caracal helicopter using 20mm cannon
• SN20 cannon used in air-to-air mode for the first time
• Tests at Biscarrosse supported by DGA and CEAM

"On June 4, 2026, the French Ministry of Armed Forces announced successful first anti-drone firing tests from an H225M Caracal helicopter at the Biscarrosse test range. The SN20 20mm cannon, previously used only for air-to-ground missions, was employed in air-to-air mode against drone targets for the first time. The tests were supported by the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and the Air Military Expertise Center (CEAM). This development expands the Air and Space Force's anti-drone capabilities, contributing to a multi-layered air defense strategy. The Caracal is operated by the 1/67 Pyrénées squadron based at Cazaux."