France may be entering a new era of precision-strike capability with the unveiling of MUTANT XL, a next-generation loitering munition jointly developed by MBDA and Delair. The system merges MBDA’s advanced missile technologies with Delair’s deep expertise in unmanned aerial platforms, creating a hybrid weapon that behaves like both a missile and a highly maneuverable drone. Designed for modern battlefield environments, the MUTANT XL emphasizes adaptability, long-range engagement, and high-precision targeting.
At the heart of MUTANT XL is a man-in-the-loop control system, allowing operators to manage the weapon from launch to impact. This real-time control approach ensures positive target identification, reduces collateral risk, and offers the flexibility to adjust mission parameters mid-flight. MBDA noted that the new munition builds upon the proven AKERON missile family, inheriting its anti-armor and anti-infrastructure performance, as well as resilience in harsh weather and high-threat scenarios.
Delair’s contribution brings enhanced maneuverability through its work on specialized defense drones and commercial UAV platforms. The company’s design expertise helps give MUTANT XL the flight agility required for contested environments, allowing it to approach targets from unpredictable angles and adapt to dynamic battlefield conditions. Together, MBDA and Delair are positioning the system as a scalable strike asset for the French Armed Forces, capable of supporting diverse mission sets from anti-armor engagements to multi-domain operations.
The development of MUTANT XL falls under France’s Larinae program, a major modernization initiative focused on long-range, remotely operated munitions. Larinae aims to equip French ground forces with systems capable of defeating armored threats at distances up to 50 kilometers, while also accelerating national efforts in drone swarms, precision-guided weapons, and next-generation autonomous strike platforms. MUTANT XL made its official public debut at the 2025 Defense Innovation Forum in Paris, marking a significant milestone for France’s growing unmanned combat ecosystem.
