The DGA (Direction Générale de l'Armement) French has awarded MBDA the contract for the MICA NG program (Missile d'Interception et de Combat Aérien Nouvelle Génération) to develop the next generation of the MICA missile. Deliveries will start in 2026, MICA NG and will affect current and future versions of fighter aircraft Flurry.
MICA NG will replace MICA missiles currently in operational service with the French armed forces and 14 countries in the rest of the world.
The NG program will see a large redesign of the current MICA family while maintaining the same aerodynamics, mass and center of gravity. This is to minimize the adaptation necessary to make the new system work with existing platforms and launchers. The formula that has ensured the success of MICA for two decades will remain the same: the option of two different seeker (infrared and radiofrequency) and two launch modes (track and eject) in a single missile envelope.
The technological changes introduced with this change of generation will provide the ability to counter future threats. This includes targets with reduced infrared and electromagnetic signatures, atypical targets (UAVs and small aircraft), as well as threats normally counteracted by air-to-air missiles (fighter aircraft and helicopters).
More specifically, the seeker Infrared will use a matrix sensor that provides greater sensitivity. The seeker of radio frequencies will use an EAA (Active Electronically Scanned Antenna), which will allow better detection. The reduced volume of electronic components inside the MICA NG will allow a greater amount of propellant to be transported, increasing the missile range.
The use of a new dual-pulse rocket engine will also provide additional energy to the missile at the end of its flight to improve maneuverability and the ability to intercept long-range targets. Finally, the addition of internal sensors will allow the monitoring of the status of the gun throughout its life (even during storage and transport), helping to reduce maintenance costs.