PARIS (Agencies): The French Army has unveiled a new infantry battalion model aimed at enhancing dismounted capabilities and adapting to the demands of modern warfare. This restructuring introduces advanced equipment, technology, and a revised task organization, marking a significant step in military modernization.
The initiative is distinct yet connected to the SCORPION modernization program, which focuses on combined-arms battlegroups. Speaking at the Future Soldier Technology Conference in London, Colonel Jacques Bouffard, director of Studies and Foresight at the Draguignan Infantry School, emphasized that the new structure incorporates lessons from the war in Ukraine and aims to strengthen combat support (CS) capacity across all battalion levels.
The French Army’s infantry battalions are categorized into three types:
- Heavy Battalions: Equipped with the Véhicule Blindé de Combat d’Infanterie (VBCI).
- Medium Battalions: Featuring the new Griffon multirole armored vehicle (VBMR).
- Light Battalions: Designed for airborne and mountain operations, utilizing the Serval VBMR-Light.
Each battalion comprises approximately 1,000 personnel, organized into four combat companies, a CS company, and a command and service support (CSS) company. The battalions operate around 150 vehicles, including 60 combat and 90 service support units.
Combat companies are structured into five platoons: one command, three combat, and one CS. A key focus of the restructuring is to increase the density and distribution of anti-tank (AT) capabilities, ensuring enhanced operational effectiveness.
This modernization effort reflects the French Army’s commitment to adapting to evolving military challenges and maintaining a robust defense posture in the face of global security demands.