The French defense company Thales and Ukroboronprom, a Ukrainian state-owned defense conglomerate, have signed an agreement to establish a joint enterprise in Ukraine, as reported by Herman Smetanin, Minister of Strategic Industry of Ukraine.
Thales specializes in three business domains: Defence & Security, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital. It develops products and solutions that help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive.
Thales has many years of experience in developing radars that are also in service in Ukraine, including the Ground Master 200 model, which was previously donated by France to strengthen Ukraine's air defense.
In the markets of defence, aerospace and space, cyber and digital, Thales provides solutions, services and products to help its customers – companies, organisations and governments – to carry out their critical missions.
“The Ukrainian defense industry has been cooperating with Thales for a long time, and I am pleased that this cooperation is deepening to the point of establishing a joint venture. I thank our French partners for their support of our defense industry and courage to work in Ukraine,” says Herman Smetanin.
The newly created company will focus on developing innovative technologies in areas such as strengthening air defense systems, improving radar systems, developing electronic warfare equipment, and improving tactical communications and optoelectronic systems.
Before the deal, Thales Belgium has also signed a memorandum with Ukraine to organise joint production of 70mm homing missiles. The missiles are to be equipped with a specially designed warhead to effectively counter drones.