Thales Belgium to Co-Produce Counter-Drone Missile With Ukrainian Firm
Thales Belgium has signed a memorandum of understanding with a Ukrainian firm to co-produce counter-drone missiles.
The Ukrainian entity’s identity was not revealed due to security concerns.
“The signed MoU sets up a framework for the joint production of C-UAS (counter-unmanned aerial system) missiles,” Ukrainian Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin said.
“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 aggression.”
FZ275 Laser Guided Rocket
Although the missile’s specifications were not disclosed, it is likely the FZ275 semi-active laser guided rocket developed by Thales Belgium.
The 70mm rocket can engage unmanned aerial targets at up to a range of 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) and an altitude of 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles).
Earlier in July, a new production line for the missile commenced operations in Belgium.
The initiative was to meet the demand for C-UAS ammunition in Ukraine, where similar APKWS rockets are currently being deployed by Ukrainian forces.
