France’s New Falcon 8X ‘Archange’ Takes Flight

Reviving a Lost Capability

France has officially launched the flight testing phase of its most advanced electronic intelligence aircraft, the Falcon 8X-based Archange. Developed to replace the prematurely retired C-160G Gabriel SIGINT aircraft, the Archange took to the skies for the first time on July 25, 2025, from Dassault Aviation’s facility in Bordeaux-Mérignac. The milestone flight marks the beginning of restoring France’s long-range airborne electromagnetic intelligence capabilities, which had suffered a major gap since 2022.

The Archange platform is derived from Dassault’s long-range Falcon 8X business jet, retrofitted with the cutting-edge CUGE system (Capacité Universelle de Guerre Électronique) developed by Thales. Designed to intercept and analyze radar and communication signals, the system uses multi-polarization antennas, artificial intelligence, and advanced signal processing to provide real-time data to French and NATO joint networks. The aircraft’s ceiling of 50,000 feet and extended endurance give it strategic flexibility far beyond its predecessor.

Bridging the Gap After Gabriel

The need for Archange has been pressing. The retirement of the C-160G Gabriel in May 2022—three years ahead of schedule—left a void that neither satellites nor tactical ISR platforms could fully fill. Interim stopgaps included ASTAC pods on Mirage 2000Ds, Beechcraft ALSR aircraft, CERES satellites, and even a leased Saab 340 under the SOLAR program. However, none matched the Gabriel’s comprehensive electromagnetic intelligence capabilities.

According to General Jérôme Bellanger, France’s current airborne ROEM tools “partially fill” the gap but are still below the level of the retired Gabriel. In parliamentary hearings, he emphasized that SOLAR was a temporary measure to retain specialist expertise while waiting for Archange to come online.

With deliveries scheduled for 2025, 2026, and 2028, the three Archange aircraft will be operated by Electronic Squadron 00.054 “Dunkerque” at Évreux-Fauville Air Base. The program includes not only aircraft and ground support systems but also a dedicated training and mission simulation facility.

Strategic Intelligence for Modern Warfare

Beyond replacing Gabriel, Archange represents France’s leap forward in SIGINT modernization. It’s designed to integrate into multi-domain operations, support coalition ISR missions, and interface with major defense programs like SCAF (Future Combat Air System) and SCORPION.

With artificial intelligence and next-gen sensors, the CUGE system enables Archange to perform simultaneous signal detection, identification, and even offer jamming and spoofing solutions. In a world of evolving electronic warfare, Archange is not just a replacement—it’s a transformation.

By reviving long-range airborne SIGINT with the Falcon 8X, France is reinforcing its position as a key intelligence player in NATO and ensuring its military stays ahead in the electromagnetic battlespace of tomorrow.