Quick decision context for procurement relevance and maturity.
On December 29, 2025, the French General Directorate for Armament (DGA) signed a contract with Naval Group to procure five CAMCOPTER® S-100F vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial systems for integration onto French Navy multi-mission frigates as part of the Navy Air Drone System (SDAM) program. The S-100F systems, produced by Schiebel, will provide lightweight reconnaissance capability with approximately six hours of flight endurance and a 50 kg maximum payload, extending ship surveillance capabilities beyond the horizon. Strategic context includes equipping FREMM-class frigates with advanced maritime surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2026.
Five systems (10 aircraft) with Naval Group for FREMM frigates[2]
https://aviationweek.com/defense/multi-mission-aircraft/schiebel-establishes-french-subsidiary-ahead-likely-s-300-sdam-bid