Safran Electronics & Defense and Theon International Plc have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture dedicated to the design, development, and commercialization of airborne electro-optical and infrared systems for unmanned aerial vehicles. The partnership, announced on 15 June 2026 at EUROSATORY in Paris, aims to fast-track the fielding of next-generation optronic solutions. The joint venture will focus on 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.

The collaboration combines the complementary strengths of both companies. Safran Electronics & Defense contributes its leadership in ISR and electro-optical systems, including expertise in stabilized gimbals. THEON brings 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.

Alexandre Ziegler, Head of the Defense Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense, stated that the partnership reinforces the company's leadership in electro-optical systems. He added that the move accelerates the development of next-generation, platform-agnostic solutions and marks a concrete step in strengthening Europe's technological sovereignty in a critical defense domain.

Christian Hadjiminas, Founder and CEO of THEON, described the agreement as a milestone move for the company. He noted that the partnership brings together THEON's strengths with those of a global leader in one of the fastest-growing segments of the defense market.

Key Partnership Details

About the Companies

THEON GROUP develops and manufactures night vision and thermal imaging systems for defense and security applications. Established in 1997, the company has a global presence with subsidiaries and production facilities in Greece, Cyprus, Germany, the Baltics, the United States, the Gulf States, Switzerland, Denmark, Belgium, Singapore, and South Korea. THEON INTERNATIONAL PLC has been listed on Euronext Amsterdam (AMS: THEON) since February 2024.

SAFRAN is an international high-technology group operating in the aviation, defense, and space markets. The company reported revenue of 31.3 billion euros in 2025 and holds global or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran Electronics & Defense, a subsidiary, designs and manufactures equipment and services for civil and military clients across land, sea, air, and space domains.