Belfast's Thales Factory Set to Deliver 5,000 Missiles to Support Ukraine

Thales missile factory's new order signifies a substantial commitment to Ukraine as the UK strengthens its support amid ongoing conflict.

The Thales missile factory in Belfast is poised to supply 5,000 air defense missiles to Ukraine, as announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The ambitious deal, valued at up to £1.6bn, entails recruiting 200 new employees at the facility. Thales, a French-owned defense giant, is recognized as one of Europe's leading arms manufacturers and produces lightweight multirole missiles (LMMs) that are already being utilized by Ukrainian forces.

Sir Keir Starmer disclosed the agreement during the unveiling of a four-point plan aimed at "reaching peace and defending Ukraine." Notably, a £162m contract established last September facilitated the initial supply of 650 LMMs to Ukraine, marking a precursor to increasing production, with deliveries having commenced in December.

This new contract represents a significant expansion: initially worth £1.16bn, it could potentially culminate in an additional £500m for collaborative efforts with a Ukrainian industry partner. This local partner is tasked with manufacturing launchers and command and control systems for the missiles right in Ukraine, fostering regional production capabilities.

The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that this is the largest contract ever awarded to Thales in Belfast. Defence Secretary John Healey remarked that the agreement would enhance Ukraine’s defense against drone and missile threats and deter any future Russian aggression, especially after hostilities cease.

The procurement, managed by the Defence Equipment & Support branch of the MoD, is financed through loans guaranteed by the United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF). This funding initiative is part of a broader strategy that enables Ukraine to access £3.5bn worth of support from UKEF for expenditures directed towards UK defense industries.