Thales Belgium and Ukraine Sign MoU for Joint Production of Counter Drone Missiles.

Thales Belgium has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a leading Ukrainian defense company to co-produce Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) missiles. This agreement, announced On November 2, 2024, by the Ukrainian Ministry of Strategic Industries, paves the way for increased collaboration and technology sharing between the two parties, focusing on countering aerial threats through locally manufactured solutions.
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Thales Belgium, a subsidiary of the global Thales Group, specializes in advanced defense and security technologies, including air defense systems, counter-drone solutions, secure communication networks, and missile components (Picture source: Thales)

According to the MoU (Memorandum of Understanding), Thales Belgium and its Ukrainian partner will work together to develop and produce C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aerial System) missile systems specifically designed to intercept and neutralize drones. With Ukraine facing an intensifying threat from UAVs amid ongoing conflict, the partnership aims to expedite the protection of critical infrastructure across the country. The framework also envisions the gradual transfer of advanced technologies and specialized equipment, empowering Ukraine's defense sector with the capabilities needed to produce and sustain C-UAS missile systems independently.

Herman Smetanin, Ukraine's Minister of Strategic Industries, expressed his appreciation for Thales’ commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense needs in the face of the Russian invasion. “The signed MoU sets up a framework for the joint production of C-UAS missiles. In the future, both sides expect to deepen cooperation and conduct the transfer of technologies and equipment for the production of C-UAS components. I am grateful to THALES for cooperating with the Ukrainian defense industry and for its assistance in our struggle against Russian armed invasion,” Smetanin stated.

The production of C-UAS missiles is a critical component of Ukraine's air defense strategy, aiming to reduce the risk of UAV attacks on essential infrastructure. The partnership reflects Ukraine's continued drive to strengthen its domestic defense industry while benefitting from the expertise of established international defense firms like Thales. This cooperation is anticipated to expedite the deployment of these systems in the field, offering swift reinforcement to Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.

Through this collaboration, Thales Belgium and Ukraine’s defense sector are expected to contribute to a resilient defense infrastructure that can adapt to emerging threats. As the MoU unfolds, the partnership could serve as a model for other defense alliances aimed at rapid technological and production advancements in wartime settings.