Safran, Theon Partner to Fast-track Fielding of Electro-optical Solutions for Drones

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Safran Electronics & Defense and Theon announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture dedicated to the design, development and commercialization of airborne electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems for unmanned aerial vehicles. The joint venture will combine the complementary strengths of both companies to develop next-generation optronic solutions, covering small gimbals weighing less than 8 kilograms, to address the growing demand for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and targeting capabilities in defense and security markets.

Safran Electronics & Defense brings its leadership in ISR and electro-optical systems, including expertise in stabilized gimbals, while Theon contributes its know-how in advanced sensors and electro-optical technologies. Together, the partners aim to deliver platform-agnostic solutions spanning the full spectrum of operational needs for affordable mass deployment systems.

“Through this partnership with Theon, we are reinforcing Safran Electronics & Defense’s leadership in electro-optical systems, accelerating the development of next-generation, platform-agnostic solutions, and enabling us to deliver ISR capabilities across the full spectrum of missions and operational needs. It marks a concrete step in strengthening Europe’s technological sovereignty in a critical defense domain,” said Alexandre Ziegler, Head of the Defense Global Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense.

Christian Hadjiminas, Founder and CEO of Theon, commented: “We appreciate SAFRAN’s trust in partnering with Theon in one of the fastest-growing segments of the defense market. This is a milestone move for Theon, bringing together our strengths with those of a global leader.”