Thales and Skydweller launch MAPS Solar Pseudo Satellite for EU Combat Monitoring

 

MAPS

In an attempt to strengthen the military potential of the European Union, Thales industrial group has signed a contract with the American aerospace startup Skydweller Aero to deploy an autonomous atmospheric satellite MAPS. This medium-altitude pseudo-satellite powered by solar panels is capable of remaining in the air for several months, transmitting observation data. The unmanned platform is equipped with modern radars and an AI system to perform combat missions.

Atmospheric or pseudo—satellites are a separate class of UAVs, they are capable of staying in the air for a long time, fueled by solar energy. The American company Skydweller Aero developed its pseudo-satellite a couple of years ago, redesigning the Swiss solar-powered electric aircraft Solar Impulse 2. The drone turned out to be large: the wingspan is larger than that of a Boeing 747, the payload is 400 kg. The device will be able to climb to an altitude of 14,000 m and accelerate to 180 km / h.

Operating at medium altitudes and carbon-free, the aircraft provides near-constant surveillance of vast maritime areas, including exclusive economic zones, shipping lanes, and disputed maritime regions.

In 2021, the Skydweller Aero pseudo-satellite caught the eye of the US Navy, and now Thales, headquartered in France, is interested in it, IE reports.

The contract with Thales allowed us to improve the capabilities of the pseudo-satellite. The AI-enabled AirMaster S radar, which was originally developed for manned maritime patrol aircraft, was integrated into its systems. It operates in the X-band and provides rapid situational awareness in the air, at sea and on land. AI-assisted data processing makes it possible to identify targets on board, which significantly reduces the amount of data transmitted and ensures efficient use of bandwidth. All this contributes to the implementation of long-term autonomous combat missions.

Most importantly, the AirMaster S radar system includes auto-tuning functions that dynamically adapt to changing tasks and environmental conditions.

According to Skydweller, the pseudo-satellite can control significant regions of the ocean, monitoring smugglers, pirates and other illegal activities from the gray zone, as well as perform military intelligence tasks. At the same time, the cost of operating the MAPS platform is only a small fraction of the cost of operating traditional aircraft.

General Atomics has integrated a 25 kW onboard laser system capable of reaching 300 kW in the future into the design of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian drone. The new directed energy system will make it possible to shoot down kamikaze drones and will become an important element of defense in distributed naval operations.

Thales and KNDS France unveil RAPIDFire Land ground defense system to protect air bases

RAPIDFire Land

At the Paris Air Show, Thales and KNDS France, together with the French Air Force and Space Forces, presented a new remotely controlled RAPIDFire Land ground defense system. This system is designed to protect air bases both in France and abroad, especially for the protection of strategically important facilities.

RAPIDFire Land System Features

- Armament: CT40 40mm telescopic cannon, developed by CTA International, a joint venture between KNDS Systems and BAE Systems, originally designed for the Jaguar armored vehicle.

- Configurations: available in two versions — mobile (mounted on a truck chassis, for example, Tatra) and semi-mobile (fixed platform for protecting facilities such as airfields).

- Ammunition and specifications: It has a rate of fire of up to 200 rounds per minute, 140 rounds of ammunition in the magazine and 280 in reserve, and a range of up to 4 km against air targets and 2.5 km against ground targets.

- Guidance systems: equipped with an optoelectronic system with a thermal imager and a laser rangefinder, as well as a fire control system that corrects fire after each shot.

- Purpose: Effective against aerial and surface threats, including drones, helicopters, light aircraft and cruise missiles.

RAPIDFire Land has become a land-based version of the RAPIDFire marine system already deployed on French Navy ships. The system is designed to complement traditional air defense systems and enhance the protection of important military installations from modern threats. The modular design allows you to adapt the system to different platforms and tasks.

The new RAPIDFire Land system is a state-of-the-art solution to enhance the security of air bases and other strategic facilities by combining high firepower, precision, and mobility.

France's Thales is teaming up with America's Skydweller Aero to create an unmanned solar-powered maritime patrol aircraft

The French company Thales, one of the world leaders in the field of defense electronics, has announced a strategic partnership with the American startup Skydweller Aero. Skydweller specializes in the development of unique solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with a wingspan comparable to a Boeing 747.

Features and capabilities of the project

- Long-term patrol: Thanks to the use of solar energy and innovative technologies, the drone will be able to stay in the air in one position for several weeks or even months, which will significantly expand the possibilities of maritime surveillance and reconnaissance.

- Large wingspan: The size of the device allows you to place complex equipment for radar, optical and electronic monitoring on board, ensuring high efficiency in maritime patrol tasks.

- Thales System Integration: Thales will provide advanced communication, command and intelligence systems, which will enhance the UAV's autonomy and functionality, as well as ensure its compatibility with existing defense platforms.

- Eco-friendly and cost-effective: Using solar energy reduces operating costs and minimizes the environmental footprint, which is especially important for long-term missions in remote offshore areas.

Combining Thales' expertise in defense electronics and Skydweller Aero's innovative developments opens up new horizons in maritime intelligence and security. Such an unmanned patrol aircraft will be able to effectively monitor maritime borders, detect threats, and provide rapid response without the need for frequent landings and refueling.

The project is aimed at meeting the growing needs of the naval forces and coast guards of various countries, especially in the face of increased maritime activity and threats in strategically important regions. It is expected that the first joint platform will be introduced in the coming years, which will be an important step in the development of long-term autonomous patrol technologies.

Europe is launching an ambitious project to create a modular tank of the 5th generation

A large-scale FMBTech defense project has been launched in Europe, aimed at developing technologies to modernize existing tanks and create the basis for fifth-generation tanks. The project, coordinated by the French company Thales, received a budget of €19 million and is designed for three years of implementation. It involves 26 organizations from 13 countries of the European Union and Norway, making it one of the largest international military technology initiatives.

Project goal: tanks of the future

The main goal of FMBTech is to develop innovative solutions for the creation of next—generation tanks that will be equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), improved communication systems and the ability to interact with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These technologies will significantly increase the combat capability of armored vehicles, ensuring their adaptability to modern warfare conditions.

The project also aims to modernize existing tanks, which will prolong their operation and increase efficiency in the face of growing threats. FMBTech participants plan to focus on developing modular solutions that can be easily adapted to various tasks and conditions of use.

Participants and their role

Among the key participants in the project are leading companies of the European military—industrial complex, such as KNDS (a consortium of KMW and Nexter), Safran and Hensoldt. Each of these organizations brings its own unique experience and technology, which makes the project even more promising. For example, KNDS is known for its developments in the field of armored vehicles, including the legendary Leopard and Leclerc tanks, while Hensoldt specializes in surveillance and fire control systems.

The main technologies of future tanks

One of the key areas of the project is the introduction of artificial intelligence, which will be able to process large amounts of data in real time, helping the crew to make quick and accurate decisions. In addition, the new tanks will be equipped with improved communication systems that allow them to coordinate actions with other units of equipment and drones.

Interaction with UAVs will become an important feature of fifth-generation tanks. Drones will be able to perform the functions of reconnaissance, targeting, and even protecting tanks from enemy attacks. This will make armored vehicles more versatile and capable of operating in difficult combat conditions.

Strategic importance for Europe

The launch of the FMBTech project demonstrates Europe's desire to strengthen its defense independence and reduce dependence on imported military equipment. The creation of their own advanced technologies for tanks will allow EU countries not only to modernize their armies, but also to strengthen their positions in the global arms market.

The success of FMBTech can be an important step in the development of Europe's collective defense. New technologies can also be used in cooperation with NATO, strengthening the defense capability of the entire alliance.

France is developing an alternative to HIMARS by mid-2026

 

France plans to test a domestic rocket-propelled artillery system by mid-2026 as an alternative to the American highly mobile artillery missile system (HIMARS). 

This step could open up new opportunities for allies seeking to gain European capabilities.The French Directorate General of Armaments intends to identify technical solutions that will allow demonstration firing in a year.

DGA is working with the Safran and MBDA consortium, as well as the Thales and ArianeGroup consortium, to develop a tactical strike capability within a radius of 150 kilometers (93 miles).

France is running out of time to replace the Lance-Roquettes Unitaire, a modified version of the M270 multiple launch rocket system. The service life of the nine remaining systems at the disposal of the army is due to end in 2027.

Lawmakers and the military leadership insist on developing a domestic version, rather than purchasing from abroad, in accordance with France's policy of ensuring autonomy in defense matters.

Belgium strengthens air defense with surface-to-air missiles

SAMP/T system

In the face of changing European security, Belgium has decided to strengthen its air defenses with modern surface-to-air missile systems. According to the latest data, Belgium is preparing to purchase the SAMP/T system developed by MBDA in collaboration with Thales. This decision is intended to fill a strategic gap in the country's defense system.

The SAMP/T (Surface-to-Air Missile Platform / Tactical) system is one of the most advanced European air defense systems. It is designed to protect against various types of aerial threats, including airplanes, helicopters, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles. SAMP/T can be integrated with other defense systems, allowing for a comprehensive air defense system.

SAMP/T is based on the Aster missile system, which has already proven itself in the armed forces of several European countries. The system is equipped with high-tech radars and fire control systems, which allows it to effectively detect and neutralize aerial threats at long distances. SAMP/T can be used both in stationary and mobile mode, which makes it flexible and adaptable to various conditions.

MBDA, one of the largest European manufacturers of rocket technology, has developed the SAMP/T system in collaboration with Thales, the world's leading manufacturer of electronic systems for the military and civilian markets. This collaboration has combined the advanced technologies and expertise of the two companies, creating one of the most effective air defense systems in the world.

The purchase of the SAMP/T system is an important step in strengthening Belgium's defense system. This will allow the country to more effectively counter modern air threats and ensure the safety of its citizens. In addition, this decision underlines Belgium's commitment to cooperation with other European countries in the field of defense and security.

Thales unveiled PANORAMIC Night vision goggles at SOFINS 2025

 At SOFINS 2025, Thales unveiled for the first time its new PANORAMIC night vision goggles, a four-tube image enhancement system specifically designed to meet the operational needs of special forces and specialized units, particularly in counterterrorism and hostage rescue operations. 

This new optotronic device, developed over the course of just over two years by Thales teams at the Center of Excellence in Optoelectronics for dismounted Soldiers, was fully funded by the French Defense Innovation Agency (AID). It reflects France's intention to provide compact and efficient night vision solutions free from ITAR export restrictions.

 PANORAMIC

Thales will provide Dutch submarines with advanced sonar systems

Thales, a long-time partner of the Naval Group and the Royal Netherlands Navy, will provide a comprehensive set of high-performance sonar systems for future Orka-class submarines. These systems will replace existing Walrus-class vessels and provide the Netherlands with operational superiority in the underwater environment.

The Orka-class submarines will form the backbone of the Dutch submarine fleet and will be equipped with the most advanced sonar systems from Thales. These systems will allow submarines to obtain a comprehensive picture of the underwater acoustic environment, which will significantly increase their combat capability and effectiveness in performing various tasks.

Integrated sonar systems from Thales will provide Orka-class submarines with the ability to detect and track underwater targets with high accuracy. This will allow the Netherlands to guarantee operational superiority in the underwater environment, which is especially important in the face of modern challenges and threats.

Thales is a long-standing partner of the Naval Group, which allows both companies to effectively cooperate in the development and implementation of advanced technologies for submarines. This partnership ensures the high quality and reliability of the supplied systems, which is a key factor for the successful fulfillment of tasks by the Dutch submarine fleet.

The Walrus-class submarines in service with the Royal Netherlands Navy will be replaced by new Orka-class vessels. This update will allow the Netherlands to significantly enhance its capabilities in the field of underwater warfare and provide a higher level of security.

The provision of a comprehensive set of high-performance sonar systems from Thales for Orka-class submarines is an important step in strengthening the defense capability of the Netherlands. These systems will provide submarines with operational superiority and enhance their combat capability, which is especially important in the face of modern challenges and threats. The partnership with the Naval Group and the Royal Netherlands Navy allows Thales to continue to implement advanced technologies and ensure the high quality and reliability of the supplied systems.

Thales Delivers World's First Autonomous Mine Defense Drone System to French Navy

 Thales has supplied the first autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle system for mine defense to the French Navy as part of the Franco-British MMCM (Maritime Mine Counter Measures) program. This delivery is the first in the world, as the system is the first autonomous surface drone to enter service with the Navy.

 This project, implemented under the auspices of the Organization for Arms Cooperation (OCCAR) and led by the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA), represents a significant technological development in the field of mine warfare, a strategic area for maritime security and freedom of navigation.