France invests €50 million in Nostradamus radar to counter hypersonic threats

France's Nostradamus radar, a groundbreaking over-the-horizon detection technology developed in the 1990s, is set for a significant upgrade as part of the nation's push for enhanced defense capabilities. Located in the rural fields of Crucey-Villages in the Eure-et-Loir region, this system stands out as Europe's only operational over-the-horizon radar, capable of monitoring vast expanses of airspace far beyond the line of sight. Its unique design allows it to bounce high-frequency radio waves off the ionosphere, enabling detection of airborne threats at distances up to several thousand kilometers.

The radar's Y-shaped antenna array spans 12 hectares, with three arms each measuring 140 meters long and incorporating 288 biconical radiators. This configuration provides coverage over millions of cubic kilometers, from ground level to altitudes of 250 kilometers. Unlike traditional radars limited by the Earth's curvature, Nostradamus can spot a wide range of objects, including stealth aircraft, hypersonic missiles traveling faster than Mach 5, and even slow-moving high-altitude balloons, such as the one from China that was intercepted over the United States in early 2023. This versatility makes it a critical asset in modern warfare, where speed and stealth are increasingly weaponized.

Historically, the system was pioneered by the French aerospace research center ONERA under funding from the Ministry of Armed Forces. It entered service in the late 1990s and has since been used for experimental and operational purposes, demonstrating autonomy in ionospheric data processing without relying on external sources. Over the years, it has proven effective in tracking ballistic trajectories and providing early warnings, but evolving global threats have necessitated its revival and enhancement.

Recent investment and modernization efforts

On September 4, 2025, French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu visited the Nostradamus site, announcing a €50 million investment to modernize the radar. This funding aims to boost precision, integrate advanced data processing, and ensure seamless connectivity with France's air operations command. The initial phase includes a €2 million experimental agreement signed between the Defense Innovation Agency and ONERA, marking the start of a multi-year program expected to culminate in full operational status by mid-2028.

The modernization will address key challenges, such as improving resolution for hypersonic threats that can exceed speeds of 6,000 km/h. According to General Jerome Bellanger, Chief of Staff of the French Air and Space Force, this upgrade will enable independent detection and tracking of ballistic and hypersonic missiles, reducing Europe's reliance on American systems like those operated by NORAD. Lecornu emphasized during his visit that recent conflicts, including Russia's use of advanced missiles in Ukraine and Iran's ballistic strikes on Israel, have underscored the urgency of such capabilities.

Beyond hardware improvements, the project involves software enhancements for real-time data analysis and integration with satellite networks. This aligns with France's broader defense strategy, which has seen military spending rise to €50.5 billion in 2025, a 3% increase from the previous year. The investment is part of a €10 million allocation for near-space operations, reflecting Paris's commitment to mastering high-altitude domains.

Integration into European defense initiatives

Nostradamus is positioned as the foundational element of the Joint European Warning System for Long-Range Threats (JEWEL), a collaborative effort between France and Germany to build a continent-wide early warning network. Launched recently, JEWEL combines ground-based radars like Nostradamus with space-based sensors from the ODIN'S EYE project, funded by the European Defence Fund. A memorandum of understanding between the two nations is in preparation, with invitations extended to other European partners to join.

This initiative addresses a critical gap in Europe's defense architecture, where current systems are heavily dependent on U.S. technology. By pooling resources, JEWEL aims to provide comprehensive coverage against emerging threats, including nuclear-capable missiles from Russia. The system's sensors will detect launches, while radars offer precise tracking, enhancing response times for allied forces.

In parallel, France is advancing other space-related projects, such as a €50 million contract for military space surveillance satellites awarded in August 2025. These efforts contribute to the European Union's record €381 billion defense spending projected for 2025, driven by geopolitical tensions.

Geopolitical context and strategic implications

The push to revitalize Nostradamus comes amid heightened global instability. Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine has showcased advanced missile technologies, prompting European nations to reassess their vulnerabilities. Similarly, Iran's rapid missile developments and China's expanding military capabilities, including high-altitude surveillance, have raised alarms.

For France, this investment underscores a drive for strategic autonomy, allowing independent decision-making in crisis scenarios. It also strengthens NATO's eastern flank, where threats from Moscow are most acute. As Lecornu noted, "These conflicts have given us much to think about," highlighting the need for proactive defenses.

Potential benefits include:

However, challenges remain, including the radar's sensitivity to ionospheric conditions and the need for continuous calibration. Despite these, experts view Nostradamus as a cost-effective alternative to satellite-only systems, offering persistent ground-based surveillance.

Future outlook and collaborations

By 2028, Nostradamus is expected to be fully integrated into France's command structure, serving as a model for European defense cooperation. Partnerships with startups like Look Up Space, which raised €50 million in June 2025 for radar networks, could further expand capabilities. This includes deploying additional radars in French overseas territories for global coverage.

Germany's involvement in JEWEL signals a deepening Franco-German alliance, potentially evolving into a pan-European shield. As threats evolve, such investments are crucial for maintaining deterrence and fostering unity among allies.