MBDA and Safran to Establish Joint Venture for THUNDART MLRS Production

MBDA and Safran Electronics & Defense will establish a joint venture in France to develop, produce, and maintain the THUNDART long-range missile system.

The companies announced the next stage of the program following an official decision by France’s Directorate General of Armament (DGA).

In June, MBDA and Safran announced that they were in the final stages of negotiations with the DGA regarding THUNDART. At the time, they also stated their intention to establish a joint venture. They have now clarified that the joint venture will operate in the Paris region, with each company holding a 50% stake in its capital.

The joint venture will oversee further development of the system, its production, and support after delivery to the armed forces. It will also handle future modifications to THUNDART, including those intended for export to allied countries.

THUNDART is being developed as a replacement for France’s LRU multiple launch rocket systems. According to MBDA, the system is designed to engage ground targets with guided missiles at ranges of up to 150 km. The launcher will carry eight missiles in two containers.

In April 2026, the developers conducted a successful demonstration launch. According to the companies, several dozen engineers are already involved in the program.

The companies plan to develop and manufacture THUNDART in France. Their goal is to ensure that the French armed forces achieve full autonomy in operating the system by 2030.