In a significant move towards enhancing defensive capabilities and promoting technological independence, French contractor Thales has partnered with Arab International Optronics (AIO) in Cairo. The newly signed agreement aims to bolster local defense manufacturing in Egypt, marking a continuation of collaboration that spans over 50 years.
The partnership focuses on developing “Made in Egypt” capabilities, engaging a workforce of more than 800 engineers and specialists. This initiative is set to stimulate local industry by infusing advanced technologies and knowledge transfer.
Central to the initiative is the establishment of a new Thales Academy in Egypt. This academy is poised to provide training for military, governmental, and civilian personnel in critical fields such as optronics, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, radio communications, and radar technology. Courses will be led by Thales experts, collaborating with both Egyptian and French universities to ensure high-quality, certified training.
In terms of advancements in defense technology, the collaboration will target upgrades for fire control systems on heavy armored vehicles. This effort will leverage AIO’s extensive experience and Thales’ advanced optical and sighting technologies. Additionally, both companies will work together on a new variant of a laser-guided rocket for AIO’s X29 remote weapon system.
Moreover, the partnership aims to enhance surveillance capabilities through the integration of Thales ground radar systems and handheld thermal imagers into a unified command-and-control unit, facilitating rapid threat detection and response.
As part of the collaboration, AIO will also establish a new service center to support the thermal imagers currently in use within Egypt’s armed forces. This center is expected to enhance operational efficiency and maintenance capabilities.
On the supply chain front, the agreement includes plans for integrating AIO components into Thales’ production lines, a strategic move aimed at increasing manufacturing output while fortifying Egypt’s industrial base.
Sherif Barakat, CEO of Thales in Egypt, expressed pride in the partnership, emphasizing its role in contributing to Egypt’s technological sovereignty. He underscored the commitment of both companies to transform Egypt into a regional technology hub, fostering high-value solutions that can be produced and exported locally.
