The order refers specifically to micro-drones (1.8 kg each) for infantry reconnaissance and combat, not larger military drones. The context of this being 'only' 1,000 is a political interpretation—this was a significant rapid-procurement initiative under a fast-tracked tender launched in February 2025, part of broader efforts to increase French drone stocks by 400% by 2030 with a €9.07 billion investment plan.
The speaker could have cited the UAS Vision article from July 2025, which was published before the January 2026 session date.
Sources
SecondaryUAS VisionFrance ordered 1,000 AI-enabled combat drones; contract signed June 30, 2025 with Harmattan AI; production and delivery from October to December 2025
SecondaryDefense MirrorContract signed on June 30, 2025 with Harmattan AI for 1,000 cost-controlled combat drones under fast-tracked European tender launched February 2025
SecondaryAeroMorningHarmattan AI completed production of first 1,000 cost-controlled combat drones in December 2025 following June 30, 2025 contract with DGA