Europe’s largest defense show, Eurosatory 2024, began at Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, with a focus on groundbreaking developments in military technology. Retired French Maj. Gen. Charles Beaudouin highlighted six main areas of focus: drones, mobile air defense, long-range artillery, landmine clearance, electronic warfare, and armored vehicles.
Advancements in drones were a major highlight, with a shift towards weapon-carrying UAV systems. Innovations like the German Donaustahl company’s MAUS FPV drone reflect the evolving landscape of drone warfare. Tethered drones and attack cargo drones also garnered attention for their surveillance and offensive capabilities.
Mobile air defense systems showcased at the event emphasized the need for cost-effective defense against drones, with cannon-based and specialist drone-jamming technologies on display. The event also featured long-range artillery solutions, including MLRS and improved artillery ammunition, aiming to outperform the enemy in the counter-battery fight.
The changing landscape of armored vehicles was evident with offerings like Rheinmetall’s Leopard 2A8 and France’s Nexter Leclerc XLR tanks, paving the way for future Main Ground Combat Systems with unmanned turrets and advanced AI integration.