Key facts
- French defense giant Thales will establish a base in Japan for defense equipment maintenance and operational support.
- Thales will transfer technology to partner Japan Steel Works to produce mortars in Japan.
- Mortar production in Japan is slated to begin in 2027.
- Thales is known for detection technologies, including medium-range radar.
- The French government holds nearly 30% of Thales's shares.
French defense contractor Thales is set to establish a base in Japan dedicated to the maintenance and operational support of defense equipment. This move involves transferring technology to its Japanese partner, Japan Steel Works, which will begin producing mortars in the country in 2027. This initiative is seen as an opportunity for Japan to enhance its sustained combat capability, a key objective for the nation.