Renault and Thales Collaborate to Enhance Drone Production in France

• •Renault will produce 1,000 military drones monthly in collaboration with Thales.
• •Production will shift from 3D printing to plastic injection molding to reduce costs.
• •The partnership aims to enhance France's defense manufacturing capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Renault Group has partnered with Thales to produce military drones, specifically the Toutatis loitering munitions, with a target of 1,000 units per month. This agreement, announced at the Eurosatory defense fair, aims to bolster France's defense manufacturing capabilities, especially in response to increased defense spending following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The partnership will transition production from 3D printing to large-scale plastic injection molding, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Currently, Thales produces about 100 units annually, and the deal is expected to significantly ramp up production capacity. While there are no immediate plans for France to purchase large quantities, the focus is on overseas markets. Renault's involvement is part of a broader strategy to leverage automotive expertise in defense manufacturing.