France Deploys Griffon MEPAC: A Game-Changer in Mobile Artillery Warfare

The French army is upgrading its artillery capabilities with the Griffon MEPAC, a new mobile mortar system. Designed for rapid deployment and withdrawal, it represents a shift towards greater mobility in response to evolving threats. The system has already seen its first international deployment during exercises in Estonia last year. The Griffon MEPAC carries a four-person crew inside an armoured vehicle. Its roof hatches open and close automatically during firing, allowing quick operation. At its core is the Thales 2R2M 120mm mortar system, capable of firing conventional ammunition up to 15 km with improved accuracy. An automatic loading tray enables a firing rate of 10 rounds per minute.

The vehicle follows a 'hit and run' tactic. It can deploy, fire, and retreat in under a minute, reducing the risk of enemy retaliation. In May 2023, these vehicles were first sent abroad for the Kevadtorm 26 exercise in Estonia.

France also tested the Thales 120MC, a 120mm rifled mortar system. During demonstrations, it proved accurate, safe, and fast to deploy, firing 50 rounds while mounted on a Dutch VECTOR 4x4 chassis. The army may adopt this system alongside the Griffon MEPAC. By 2028, France plans to acquire 54 Griffon MEPAC units. Each artillery regiment will eventually receive eight vehicles. These upgrades aim to enhance the army’s manoeuvrability as it prepares for potential future conflicts.