British Defense Ministry finalizes $227 million Martlet missile contract with Thales

Europe, News July 25, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The British Ministry of Defense (MoD) has finalized a contract with Thales UK, securing the procurement of the “Martlet” lightweight multirole missiles (LMM) to replenish the nation’s munition stocks.

The $227 million (£176 million) contract was announced by the UK Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) at the Farnborough International Airshow, a major event in the aerospace and defense calendar.

“The lightweight multirole missiles [LMM] will equip the UK Armed Forces, and we expect the deliveries to begin in 2027,” the Minister for Defense Procurement and Industry Maria Eagle stated. While the exact number of missiles ordered remains undisclosed, due to the sensitive nature of British munition stockpiles, the importance of this procurement is clear.

The Martlet missiles have a proven track record of efficacy and versatility. Weighing 13 kilograms, these missiles are designed to defend against a range of airborne threats such as drones and helicopters, as well as serving in an air-to-ship capacity against maritime targets. This adaptability has made them a crucial component in both defensive and offensive military operations.

The recent contract comes in the wake of the UK’s substantial military support to Ukraine. The British government has donated hundreds of Martlet missiles to Ukraine, aiding in its defense against Russian aggression.

Andy Start, the Chief Executive Officer of DE&S, highlighted the impact of these contributions, stating that the missiles have made a “significant contribution in terms of Ukraine’s ability to defend their homeland.” Notably, these missiles were effectively used by Ukrainian forces against Russian Shahid kamikaze drones during an attack on the capital city last year.

*^{Martlet LMM precision strike missile. (Image Credit: Navalnews)}*

The Martlet missiles have also been deployed in various international operations, demonstrating their strategic value and operational flexibility. In 2021, they were fired for the first time from a Wildcat helicopter in the Bay of Bengal during the deployment of the Royal Navy’s Carrier Strike Group. More recently, the missiles played a crucial role in Operation Prosperity Guardian, a maritime mission aimed at protecting commercial shipping vessels from attacks by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

“This is part of the UK’s commitment to continue to invest in the missile and maintain production, as well as of our wider munitions strategy,” Start added. This statement underscores the UK’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities through sustained investment in advanced military technology.

The strategic decision to replenish the Martlet missile stockpiles aligns with the UK’s broader defense and security policies. It ensures that the UK Armed Forces remain equipped with cutting-edge technology to address emerging threats and maintain operational readiness. Furthermore, the contract with Thales U.K. represents a significant investment in the domestic defense industry, supporting local jobs and expertise.

The Farnborough International Airshow provided a fitting backdrop for the announcement, highlighting the importance of international cooperation and innovation in defense technology. The event brought together leading defense and aerospace companies from around the world, showcasing the latest advancements and fostering crucial partnerships.

Wildcat HMA Mk2 helicopter equipped with Martlet missiles — *^{HMS Defender’s Wildcat HMA Mk 2 helicopter conducts flying sorties with her Martlet wings attached whilst in the Indo-Pacific region. (Image Credit: LPhot Dan Rosenbaum/UK Ministry of Defence)}*

The $227 million contract with Thales UK for Martlet missiles signifies a critical step in bolstering the UK’s defense capabilities. With delivery set to begin in 2027, these missiles will enhance the operational flexibility and readiness of the UK Armed Forces. As global security challenges continue to evolve, investments like this are essential to maintaining national defense and supporting international allies.