The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) has awarded a contract for Stage 3 of the IP Network for the French Navy (RIFAN) to a consortium led by Airbus Defence and Space, alongside Naval Group. Valued at up to 480 million euros with a maximum duration of 10 years, the contract includes the development, deployment, and operational maintenance of the upgraded RIFAN system.
“Airbus Defence and Space has been a key player in developing and deploying communication networks for French Navy ships for nearly 15 years,” said Eric Even, Head of Space Digital at Airbus Defence and Space. “With RIFAN 3, we are preparing for the next phase—networked and collaborative naval combat, integrating all platforms and assets involved in naval operations.”
The enhancements will occur incrementally between 2026 and 2030, with the system deployed on vessels from 2028 to 2032. Over 80 naval vessels, including aircraft carriers, frigates, submarines, and support ships, will be equipped with the new RIFAN 3 network.
This contract aims to improve connectivity between ships, supporting collaborative combat efforts with advanced, high-speed, low-latency transmission on front-line vessels. The network’s resilience will also be bolstered by rapid reconfiguration mechanisms to adapt to varying communication resources across different tactical scenarios. Enhanced cybersecurity will be integrated to safeguard the network’s integrity against growing cyber threats.
The RIFAN 2 system, which was introduced between 2012 and 2016, brought together communication resources like the Syracuse IV system, Comcept, and commercial satellite constellations, ensuring secure data exchange across vessels. The RIFAN 3 upgrade will further strengthen these capabilities for future naval operations.
Airbus is a global aerospace leader, renowned for designing, manufacturing, and delivering innovative aircraft, helicopters, and space systems. Headquartered in Europe, the company is a key player in the aviation industry, providing cutting-edge technology to meet the needs of airlines, defense forces, and space exploration.
Airbus is known for its commercial aircraft, such as the A320 and A350, which are widely used by airlines around the world for their fuel efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. In addition to its commercial division, Airbus also specializes in military aircraft, helicopters, and satellite systems, contributing to defense and space missions globally. Committed to sustainability, Airbus is actively working on developing environmentally friendly solutions, such as electric aircraft and hydrogen-powered technology, to support a greener future in aviation.
