NEW DELHI: Thales Group, a prominent French defense and aerospace company, has announced plans to establish a third facility in northern England. This strategic move comes in response to a substantial ยฃ1.6 billion ($2 billion) contract aimed at supplying air-defense missiles to Ukraine, underscoring the company’s commitment to bolstering defense capabilities in Europe.
The UK will supply Ukraine with more than 5000 air defence missiles to keep people and infrastructure safe from attack.
The deal delivers on the UKโs commitment to Ukraine and will create hundreds of jobs here in the UK.
๐ฌ๐ง๐บ๐ฆ#StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/rdQVLKbrF2
โ Ministry of Defence ๐ฌ๐ง (@DefenceHQ) March 2, 2025
On March 2, 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled a landmark deal to fund the procurement of 5,000 air-defense missiles for Ukraine. This initiative is facilitated through export finance and involves Thales manufacturing the Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), also known as Martlet missiles. These versatile missiles boast a range exceeding six kilometers and can be launched from various platforms, including land, sea, and air, enhancing Ukraine’s defense against aerial threats.
Thales’ Expansion in the UK
In light of the substantial missile order, Thales has committed to expanding its operations by opening a third site in northern England. This expansion is expected to create numerous job opportunities and strengthen the UK’s defense manufacturing sector. The new facility will focus on the production of the Martlet missiles, ensuring timely delivery to meet the heightened demand arising from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Martlet Missiles: Enhancing Defensive Capabilities
The Martlet missile, developed by Thales Air Defence, is a lightweight, laser-guided projectile designed for multiple roles, including air-to-surface, air-to-air, surface-to-air, and surface-to-surface engagements. Initially conceived to equip the Royal Navy’s AW159 Wildcat helicopters, the Martlet has proven effective against various targets, from small boats to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Its adaptability and precision make it a valuable asset in modern warfare scenarios.
Broader Implications for European Defense
The escalating geopolitical tensions in Europe, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have prompted European nations to reassess and bolster their defense strategies. The substantial investment in defense capabilities reflects a collective effort to address critical security gaps, including air and missile defense systems. Companies like Thales, BAE Systems, and Rheinmetall are at the forefront, responding to increased demand for advanced defense technologies.
Thales’ decision to open a third site in northern England, following the ยฃ1.6 billion missile contract for Ukraine, signifies a robust response to the pressing defense needs in Europe. This expansion enhances the UK’s defense manufacturing capabilities and also reinforces the collective effort to support Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical challenges.
