The French government announced on July 24 it was starting development of the MICA (Missile d’interception de combat et d’autodéfense) NG (nouvelle generation) air-to-air missile. A development contract between France’s Direction générale de l’armement (Directorate General of Armaments) and industry participants MBDA, Safran and Thales is to be signed in September. The MICA NG will replace the current MICA missile arming Armée de l’Air Rafale and Mirage 2000 ighters. Like the MICA, the MICA NG will be produced in two versions, using infrared and active radar guidance. The current MICA inventory will reach the end of its service life between 2018 and 2030. The MICA NG, which is scheduled to receive its first order in 2023 and to enter service in 2026, will use the airframes and other components of the original MICA missile, upgraded with improved guidance and rocket motors. David Isby
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