Theon International Plc (THEON) has announced that Safran Electronics & Defense and THEON have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture dedicated to the design, development, and commercialisation of airborne electro-optical and infrared systems for unmanned aerial vehicles. The joint venture will combine the complementary strengths of both companies to develop next-generation optronic solutions, covering small gimbals weighing less than 8 kilograms, to address the growing demand for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and targeting capabilities in defence and security markets.
Safran Electronics & Defense brings its leadership in ISR and electro-optical systems, including expertise in stabilised gimbals, while THEON contributes its know-how in advanced sensors and electro-optical technologies. Together, the partners aim to deliver platform-agnostic solutions spanning the full spectrum of operational needs for affordable mass deployment systems.
Alexandre Ziegler, Head of the Defence Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense, stated:
“Through this partnership with THEON, we are reinforcing Safran Electronics & Defense’s leadership in electro-optical systems, accelerating the development of next-generation, platform-agnostic solutions, and enabling us to deliver ISR capabilities across the full spectrum of missions and operational needs. It marks a concrete step in strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty in a critical defence domain.”
Christian Hadjiminas, Founder and CEO of THEON, added:
“We appreciate Safran’s choosing to partner with THEON in one of the fastest-growing segments of the defence market. This is a milestone move for THEON, bringing together our strengths with those of a global leader.”
