At Paris Arms Fair, Europe Unveils Its Answer to the US Tomahawk

Europe's largest missile manufacturer MBDA showcased a new long-range cruise missile in Paris, considered the continent's closest rival to the famous US Tomahawk. The weapon is designed to operate even when GPS is jammed and can be launched from both sea and land, significantly enhancing its flexibility. The system is aimed at striking targets deep in enemy territory without dependence on US weapons systems.

At an international arms exhibition in Paris, Europe's largest missile manufacturer MBDA introduced a new long-range cruise missile capable of striking targets hundreds to thousands of kilometres away. The weapon is widely considered Europe's most ambitious response to the legendary Tomahawk cruise missile of the United States.

Land-based cruise missile, Europe's missing link

Until now, Europe has possessed certain strike capabilities from the sea and air, but a land-based long-range cruise missile has been one of the continent's clear defensive weaknesses. MBDA's new system fills precisely this gap, enabling strikes against enemy positions in depth with greater flexibility and versatility than before.

The weapon has been developed to function even when GPS navigation is disrupted or completely lost-a problem that has become increasingly acute in modern warfare, where electronic warfare capabilities are advancing rapidly. The use of an alternative navigation system makes the missile more resilient to contemporary jamming methods.

Europe's strategic autonomy grows

Experts emphasise that the arrival of the new missile marks an important turning point for Europe's defence industry. Until now, several NATO allies have relied heavily on US-produced Tomahawks, but geopolitical developments have created pressure to develop a more independent European arsenal.

MBDA's cruise missile has also been designed with consideration for modern battlefields saturated with drones, where weapons following simple trajectories are more vulnerable. The system's precise firing range and other technical parameters have not been disclosed, but according to the manufacturer, this is a genuine strategic weapon, not merely a tactical solution.

Arms exhibition in Paris, Europe's new defence direction

The Paris arms fair has become a mirror of Europe's changing defence policy, with the continent's countries increasing defence spending and investing ever more in domestic weapons infrastructure. MBDA's cruise missile presentation is one of the most prominent examples of this trend, sending a clear signal to both allies and potential adversaries.