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Jan. 13, 2021 / 3:17 PM

French army to purchase 300 mini-drones

The French Armed Forces announced the purchase of 300 mini-drones from defense contractor Parrot SA on Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Parrot SA

The French Armed Forces announced the purchase of 300 mini-drones from defense contractor Parrot SA on Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Parrot SA

Jan. 13 (UPI) -- French drone maker Parrot will build 300 small drones for the French Army under a five-year contract, according to two announcements on Wednesday.

The ANAFI USA drones weigh 17 ounces, have a battery-powered fight time of up to 32 minutes and typically carry cameras, including thermal cameras, for day and night observation capabilities.

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Capable of fitting in a soldier's hand, the drones have been sold internationally, including to U.S. government agencies, and police and fire departments.

In December, the U.S. Air Force 60th Security Forces Squadron announced the use of its first drone-based perimeter security system, at Travis Air Force Base, Calif.

The French defense ministry announced the contract, which includes maintenance and training, on Wednesday. The cost was not announced.

A statement from the company emphasized that the drones have no Chinese content, and noted their low noise signature, inaudible from 426 feet.

France has used surveillance drones in missions in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso since 2014, and in 2019 employed laser-guided missiles aboard drones to strike targets.

Le ministère des Armées commande 300 micro-drones de reconnaissance et de renseignement à la société @Parrot. ️ Ces micro-drones équiperont les 3 armées ️ Premières livraisons attendues en juin 2021 ️ Commandes assurées par la @DGA #NotreDéfense pic.twitter.com/XpkKQ1KINA— Ministère des Armées (@Armees_Gouv) January 12, 2021

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