Thales to open what could be Japan’s first foreign-run defence maintenance base
The facility could be the first in Japan set up by a foreign defence company to maintain military equipment and support its operation, according to Nikkei.
French defence firm Thales SA plans to create a maintenance and operational support facility in Japan, according to Nikkei. The establishment would mark a milestone in Thales' long-term commitment to the country, although the opening date and exact location remain undisclosed, reported Nikkei. The facility could potentially become Japan's first foreign-run defence maintenance base, exclusively focusing on the upkeep and operation of military equipment.
Initially, the base will concentrate on maintaining equipment for the Maritime Self-Defence Force, with plans to expand its services to the Ground and Air Self-Defence Forces in the future. Thales' CEO, Patrice Caine, expressed hope that the facility could provide support in areas where the company holds a technological edge, such as radar and sonar systems.
The potential base's operations could eventually extend to supporting civilian equipment as well. The announcement of the base comes amid Japan's increased defence expenditure, driven by concerns over China's military expansion and North Korea's weapons programs. In addition to its maintenance plans, Thales is also broadening its local production efforts.
The company intends to transfer technology for its heavy mortar system to Japan Steel Works, with the mortar set to begin local production in 2027. Thales has already been supplying sonar technology to Japan's Maritime Self-Defence Force for detecting underwater mines. Since its inception in Japan in 1970, Thales has been actively involved in defence, aerospace, and digital security sectors. Thales' share price in Paris saw a 1.5% increase on Monday.
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