From APKWS to LADAC: France joins the race for cheap laser-guided rockets to down drones

France has begun introducing LADAC, a lower-cost counter-drone capability based on laser-guided 68 mm rockets, following the US adoption of 70 mm APKWS II rockets for air-to-air engagements. The French DGA completed Rafale integration and live-fire tests in July 2026 and scheduled delivery of the first equipment batch for late July, with Mirage 2000 RMV integration also envisaged. On Rafale, the concept combines rocket launchers with aircraft radar and the TALIOS targeting pod for detection, tracking and laser designation; Thales has proposed the 12-round Telson JF12 launcher. The system is intended to conserve more expensive MICA missiles, while the precise rocket designation and effective air-to-air engagement range have not been officially confirmed.