Counter-UAS: Thales Belgium and Ukrainian partner plan to build C-UAS missiles

Counter-UAS missiles (counter-unmanned aerial system, C-UAS) are to be jointly developed and produced in future: Thales Belgium, the Belgian subsidiary of Thales, signed a corresponding letter of intent with a major Ukrainian defence company several weeks ago. Ukraine's Ministry of Strategic Industries recently made this public.

The aim of the agreement is to counter the growing drone threat in Ukraine with technologically advanced, locally manufactured solutions. The C-UAS missiles are designed to intercept and neutralise drones and thus protect the country's critical infrastructure – a key element of Ukraine's air defence strategy.

Technology transfer for independent counter-UAS production

Thales is gradually transferring the necessary technologies and specialised equipment to Ukraine. This is intended to enable the Ukrainian defence sector to develop and sustain C-UAS capabilities itself. In the long term, the manufacturing and technology know-how is meant to strengthen Ukraine's defence autonomy.

Ukraine's Minister for Strategic Industries, Herman Smetanin, stressed: “The signed letter of intent creates a framework for the joint production of C-UAS missiles. I am grateful to Thales for supporting Ukraine's defence in our fight against the Russian armed invasion.”

With the agreement, Ukraine wants to accelerate the deployment of these systems. The cooperation fits into the strategies of NATO and Europe to promote Ukraine's resilience through partnerships. According to the minister, the partnership with Thales also reflects Ukraine's strategy of expanding its domestic defence industry with the help of an established international company.