Euronaval 2026: France takes next steps on DAUPHIN offboard active decoy project

France's DGA has moved its DAUPHIN offboard active-decoy demonstration into a second phase, integrating a Thales radio-frequency jammer with a Lacroix Defense multicopter. Designed to protect warships from radar-guided anti-ship missiles, the vehicle is launched from the ship before deploying six rotor arms and manoeuvring into position to draw the missile seeker away. Lacroix developed the flight vehicle with Aviation Design, while Thales and Lacroix disclosed project details at Euronaval on November 3. The programme is intended to mature technology for a later production and fielding effort, supplementing passive countermeasures such as chaff and radar reflectors.