Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the Thales missile factory in Belfast is operating at full capacity, fueled by increased demand for missiles. The factory has recently inaugurated a new, predominantly automated production line to meet the surge in orders.
Located in Northern Ireland, the Thales facility manufactures Starstreak short-range surface-to-air missiles and Lightweight Modular Missiles (LMM), which are versatile weapons capable of targeting both air and ground threats. Additionally, it assembles NLAW anti-tank missiles for the Swedish defense company Saab.
While production levels had been relatively modest since the end of the Cold War era, the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022 triggered a significant spike in demand for Thales' products.
Alex Cresswell, the head of Thales' British unit, revealed that production has doubled over the past two years, reaching its highest level ever, with projections indicating another doubling in the next two years. Although specific production figures were not disclosed, the demand for shoulder-fired short-range missiles like those produced by Thales has soared amidst the conflict in Ukraine.
Even prior to the escalation of hostilities, the United Kingdom had supplied 3,500 NLAWs to Ukraine, with an additional promise of 6,000 missiles in the early stages of the war. The UK's support for Ukraine, including military aid amounting to £7.1 billion ($9.0 billion), has positioned it as one of Kyiv's primary allies.
According to a recent report by the British defense think tank RUSI, Thales' products from the Belfast factory have become indispensable for UK supplies to Ukraine, particularly in countering Russian military advances.
Thales has also played a crucial role in training Ukrainian troops in the operation of Starstreak missiles, capable of reaching speeds of Mach 3 and deploying three explosive darts against targets.
To meet the heightened demand, the Belfast factory has expanded its workforce, hiring 140 employees last year, bringing the total staff count to 900. Plans are underway to recruit an additional 100 workers this year.
Within the factory premises, technicians are seen assembling missile components meticulously, while a dedicated area focuses on NLAW assembly. There are also plans to establish a second production line in a currently vacant section of the facility.
Angus Cameron, Thales' UK Business Director of Advanced Weapon Systems, emphasizes the company's proactive approach in anticipating increased demand and securing necessary supplies well in advance.
Cresswell highlights the critical role of an efficient supply chain, noting that Thales had made significant investments in the Starstreak supply chain as early as 2013, ensuring a steady flow of components for missile production.
As Thales continues to ramp up production to meet the demands of the Ukraine conflict, its ability to navigate potential supply chain disruptions remains paramount for sustaining the momentum in missile manufacturing.
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