French fighter pilots successfully shot down high-altitude balloons during a recent test, reflecting rising concerns over spy balloons. This test involved Rafale and Mirage 2000 aircraft and signified France's commitment to operating effectively in near space. Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized that the very high altitudes, considered an area of conflict, require advanced missile capabilities. French military officials described this region as a "coveted space" due to its operational benefits. The Ministry of Armed Forces highlighted the ambiguity of this gray area, which is increasingly relevant to global strategic ambitions.
"French fighter pilots shot down high-altitude balloons during a test amid renewed concerns over spy balloons and as France warns that the battle for near space is on."
"Lecornu said very high altitudes were becoming an 'area of conflict,' calling the recent test a first milestone for his armed forces' strategy for that area."
"We must ask ourselves up to what altitude our weapons systems can still operate effectively," Lecornu said.
"France's armed forces ministry called this 'a coveted space' that has operational advantages but, by the same token, can be used to challenge countries' sovereignty."
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