Thales and Poland’s Mesko have signed an agreement to expand domestic production of rocket systems, including motor assembly and critical component manufacturing.
The deal outlines plans to transfer high-value industrial activities to Poland as Warsaw continues efforts to strengthen its defense manufacturing base.
The partnership centers on 70mm rocket systems, a class of weapons widely used by helicopters, aircraft, land vehicles, and naval platforms.
Traditionally employed as unguided munitions, modern variants increasingly incorporate precision guidance kits that improve accuracy while keeping costs lower than larger guided missiles.
Under the agreement, subsidiaries of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ) will take on the assembly of rocket engines and production of key components for 70mm rocket systems.
Thales and Mesko will also explore joint development opportunities involving effectors and advanced propulsion technologies.
Poland’s Rocket and Missile Production
The deal marks the latest step in Poland’s effort to increase local production of missiles, rockets, and ammunition as the country carries out one of Europe’s largest military modernization programs.
In May, PGZ subsidiary Nitro-Chem announced plans to work with General Dynamics and Paramount Enterprises International to establish domestic production capacity for unguided 70mm Hydra rockets.
The initial phase will involve assembly at Nitro-Chem’s Bydgoszcz facility using components supplied by General Dynamics, with potential expansion into a wider Polish production and logistics hub.
Earlier, in March, Poland announced plans to build a Common Anti-Air Modular Missile–Extended Range service and manufacturing center in Zielonka to localize advanced air defense missile production.
The same month, PGZ signed a framework agreement with Estonia’s Frankenburg Technologies to produce Mark I anti-drone missiles locally, with planned output reaching up to 10,000 units per year.
