The defense sector is operating at full capacity. French car manufacturer Renault confirmed on Monday, March 30 that they are working on a new project: a “ground drone for military and civilian use”. This initiative, revealed by L’Usine Nouvelle and reported by BFM Business, is part of a partnership with John Cockerill, owner of the military vehicle manufacturer Arquus. Renault mentioned that they were contacted earlier this year by the Ministry of Armed Forces, who were interested in their rapid development and production capabilities.
The manufacturer stated that their research and development teams are “testing and exploring various options, including ground robots, which also have potential civilian applications”. “This is an exploratory study project,” the group added. The envisioned prototype would be the size of a small car and designed for field reconnaissance. According to L’Usine Nouvelle, its design would resemble a small lunar 4×4, equipped with multiple suspended cameras. It would be based on a technological platform incorporating some existing modules and components from Renault.
Renault expands its ambitions in defense The presentation of their very first ground military drone could take place at the Eurosatory exhibition in June, although the manufacturer has not confirmed this date. This is not Renault’s first project in the defense sector. The group is already working on the airborne drone Chorus, in collaboration with Turgis Gaillard, produced at the Le Mans factory with a production rate of up to 600 units per month.
In the longer term, Renault and Arquus could also develop light military vehicles, potentially adapting certain models from the Dacia range for military use.
