JavaScript Required

Jumpseat Aerospace News requires JavaScript to function. Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings to continue.

Thales Boosts Guided Rocket Production Amid ME Demand

June 1, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Thales Belgium more than doubles guided rocket production capacity.
Annual production expected to reach 20K by 2028.
Guided rockets suitable for counter drone missions.
Requests received from Gulf states for the weapons.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Upgrade

Strategic Implications

Thales' increased production may indicate growing demand for European defense solutions in the Middle East, which could strengthen the company's position in the regional market. The focus on cost-effective solutions suggests a competitive advantage, which may benefit Thales in future procurement decisions.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

Upgrade

What Happened

European Defense Giant Expands Capacity To Meet Regional Needs

Thales Belgium has significantly increased its guided rocket production capacity in response to rising demand from the Middle East, with plans to produce 20,000 units annually by 2028. The company’s 70 mm guided rocket is part of the Skydefender integrated air and missiles defense platform and is suitable for counter drone missions. Thales officials have received requests from Gulf states and are open to technology transfer and local production, which could be key to breaking into the regional market. The production expansion was reported by Breaking Defense during a media tour of Thales’ facilities in Belgium.

Source

Companies Mentioned