The model of the "Thor" 227mm guided rocket system. According to French media reports, in order to reduce dependence on foreign products, France plans to conduct its first test of the "Ground Long Range Strike" (FLP-T) multiple rocket launcher system in 2026. The project is led by the French Armaments Agency and involves multiple local defense companies such as Safran, European Missile Group, Thales, and Ariane Group. Its aim is to develop a tactical strike system with a range of up to 150 kilometers. The French military is expected to receive the first batch of 13 sets before 2030 and another 13 sets before 2035. Currently, the American made LRU rocket artillery system equipped by the French Army is gradually aging, and its technical performance can no longer meet the requirements. Meanwhile, multiple European countries have chosen to purchase multiple rocket launchers from outside the region, such as Israel's "Pulse" and South Korea's K239 "Tianwu" models. In order to enhance strategic autonomy and consolidate Europe's industrial foundation in the field of guided rocket artillery systems, France officially launched the "Ground Remote Strike" project in November 2023. The participating companies are divided into two bidding teams, among which the "Thor" 227mm guided rocket system model jointly developed by European Missile Group and Safran has been unveiled at the 2024 European Defense Exhibition; Thales and Ariane Group are developing an autonomous fire support system capable of striking high-value targets, with an initial range of 150 kilometers and long-term targets extending to 500 kilometers or even 1000 kilometers. After the completion of the testing, the French Armaments General Administration plans to select the best option from two options, which not only meets the needs of its own army, but also hopes to promote European cooperation and capability integration in this field. (New Society)