Defense News 

UK

Thales UK has ramped up its production of weapons in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with operations doubling and expected to double again.

The escalation follows Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting the company, a subsidiary of the French Thales Group, to intensify activities at its two Northern Ireland facilities. High-precision missiles, including the Starstreak, Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) systems, and assembly of the Saab-designed NLAW, are being produced at its east Belfast plant, with final assembly taking place in Crossgar, Co Down.

Thales UK has also contributed to training efforts, preparing both UK and Ukrainian soldiers in the south of England.

The Thales Group, operating in 68 countries, spans various sectors, including cybersecurity, aerospace, and defense systems. The Belfast plant’s history with missile production dates back decades, with notable use during the Falklands War in 1982 and later in conflicts such as the Gulf War and Afghanistan. Starstreak missiles were also deployed for the security of the 2012 London Olympic Games and are planned for use in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.

The increase in production is directly linked to the need for military aid to Ukraine, with Thales replenishing Starstreak, LMM, and Saab NLAW systems previously procured by the UK Ministry of Defence for assistance to Ukraine.

Thales maintains a policy of selling missiles exclusively to governments, under strict licensing agreements for military exports from the UK.