MICA NG Missile Paves the Way for Revolutionary Progress
On Thursday, 19 June 2025, the teams from MBDA, the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA), Dassault Aviation, and the French Air and Space Army triumphantly accomplished the first developmental launch of the air-to-air missile MICA NG (Missile for Interception Combat and Auto Defence New Generation) from a Rafale aircraft at the DGA-Missile testing facility in the Mediterranean. This inaugural guided launch against a simulated target is crucial for validating various functional elements of the missile in its infrared setup, marking a significant milestone in the missile’s advancement that began in late 2018.
A multifaceted missile to address emerging challenges
The MICA NG leverages the extensive expertise amassed by MBDA through the MICA initiative to craft a next-generation multifunctional missile. It offers exceptional tactical flexibility to meet the operational requirements of armed forces responding to changing aerial threats.
The MICA NG aims to replace existing MICA missiles by boosting capabilities for medium-range interception, close-quarter combat, and self-defense of Rafale fighter aircraft, conforming to present and forecasted standards for the Air and Space Army as well as the National Navy, thereby ensuring air superiority. In its surface-to-air form, the MICA NG VL will provide a self-protection system for naval vessels and ground-based strategic zones, enhancing the security of military facilities and crucial events.
Thanks to MBDA’s innovative breakthroughs, the MICA NG is integrating cutting-edge technologies that enable it to confront a broader spectrum of threats. Beyond traditional targets typically engaged by air-to-air missiles (aircraft, helicopters), the MICA NG expands its capabilities to include threats characterized by low infrared and electromagnetic signatures, such as drones, stealth aircraft, and agile cruise missiles.
Improved specifications for modern aerial warfare
The MICA NG is set to provide a significant increase in missile range and enhanced maneuverability, thanks to a new dual-pulse propulsion system.
Moreover, to optimize the equipment availability for the forces and ensure peak operational readiness, the mechanical architecture of the MICA NG will extend the missile’s operational lifespan during aerial transit. Interior sensors will continuously monitor the condition of the munition throughout its service life. These enhancements will greatly facilitate maintenance requirements and reduce the total ownership costs associated with the missile.
Ultimately, the MICA NG advances the remarkable concept of the MICA by developing two variations. One incorporates a new infrared seeker based on a matrix sensor, offering superior computational abilities and sensitivity to extremely low infrared signature targets. The other variant is equipped with a state-of-the-art electromagnetic seeker utilizing an active modular transmitter antenna (EASA), enabling more effective detection capabilities.
The thorough redesign of the MICA NG preserves the physical, electrical, and aerodynamic features that contribute to the MICA’s success while minimizing integration efforts with existing platforms and launch systems. No matter the scenario, the MICA NG provides the most effective solutions for the forces’ requirements, enabling the Rafale to target a diverse range of enemies.
The upcoming tests will confirm the extensive capabilities of the MICA NG in both versions, utilizing various configurations, speeds, and altitudes, exemplifying its versatility.
With this significant capability, MBDA introduces a sovereign weapon system designed for high-intensity situations, grounded in proven expertise and responding effectively to advancements in aerial warfare. The MICA NG missiles are anticipated to be delivered by the decade’s end, aiming to enhance the air superiority capabilities of the French military forces.
