Thales Increases Rocket Production in Belgium to Strengthen European Defense.

On July 1, 2024, Thales inaugurated a new assembly line at its Herstal site in Belgium, aimed at increasing the production of 70mm laser-guided rockets. This expansion is part of a research and development program supported by the Walloon Region. This initiative marks a significant step in a €20 million investment plan launched in 2023, backed by the Belgian government and the European Union's "Act in Support of Ammunition Production" (ASAP) plan.
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Thales is a market leader in 2.75"/70mm rocket systems, launchers, and firing control systems, offering both unguided and laser-guided 70mm rockets (Picture source: Thales)

Thales Belgium, the European leader in 70mm rocket systems, has significantly increased its production capacity to meet the growing ammunition needs of European armed forces. This decision follows a letter of intent from Minister Dedonder, expressing her support for ramping up Thales's munitions production activities. The increased production capacity will enable a faster response to the demands of the armed forces. The rockets produced are NATO-standard 70mm (2.75 inch) calibre, currently used in Ukraine.

In less than a year, Thales Belgium has laid the groundwork to increase the production of these rockets from 1,000 to 5,000 units by 2025. The company is the only manufacturer of these munitions in Europe and has hired over 50 new employees, strengthened its supply chain, and vertically integrated several additional activities to boost production.

Thales is a market leader in 2.75"/70mm rocket systems, launchers, and firing control systems, offering both unguided and laser-guided 70mm rockets. These solutions are designed for direct and indirect fire support from airborne and surface platforms.

Thales' 2.75"/70mm unguided rockets provide a high level of interoperability and have been successfully integrated on multiple platforms, including US launchers, airborne and ground-combat platforms, as well as remote weapon stations. These rockets are used for area saturation in symmetric warfare and provide direct and indirect fire support.

Thales' 2.75"/70mm laser-guided rockets enable precise targeting through laser guidance, ensuring resistance to jamming and high accuracy. These rockets are designed for multiple missions, offering precision strikes on both mobile and fixed targets.

Nearly 70 armed forces worldwide use Thales' rocket solutions, with 8 million rockets delivered globally, equipping 500 platforms. Minister Dedonder emphasized that the expansion of the production line responds to the growing international demand and defense needs in the current global security situation.

She noted that this initiative helps strengthen Belgium’s strategic autonomy and ensures peace and security in Europe. She also highlighted that the choice of Belgium for this expansion underscores the exceptional skills of Walloon workers in precision technologies.

Willy Borsus, Vice-President of Wallonia and Minister of Economy, Research, and Innovation, underscored the importance of Thales Belgium's involvement in meeting the needs of European armed forces. He highlighted Wallonia's potential in the defense sector and called for increased collaboration between the federal government and Wallonia to effectively position Walloon industry in defense markets and European and NATO programs.

Hervé Dammann, Executive Vice President of Land and Air Systems at Thales, stated that the new production line at the Herstal site demonstrates the Group's commitment to constant innovation and investment in strategic production capacities for Europe. Supported by the Belgian government and the European Commission under the ASAP plan, Thales Belgium continues to provide its expertise as a European leader in 70mm rocket systems to the continent's armed forces.