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NewswireTODAY - /newswire/ -
Paris, Île-de-France, France, 2026/05/20 - The Martlet weapon system by Thales has officially achieved full operating capability (FOC) with the Royal Navy. In service on Wildcat helicopters since 2020, the system has undergone extensive trials to provide additional capability - ThalesGroup.com. Euronext: HO
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Originally designed to fire from heights of over 500 ft at surface targets, it has been successfully trialled to fire from just 50 ft. The reduced altitude enables helicopters to navigate adverse weather conditions and more accurately target small to medium size threats, such as small surface vessels. Furthermore, the system has proven highly effective against aerial threats such as unmanned aerial systems or helicopters. This advancement means that Martlet is the Royal Navy’s go-to effector for air-launched strike, Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) or Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIAC) missions.
Cdr Andrew Henderson, Commanding Officer Wildcat Maritime Force, said
“Martlet achieving FOC is a step-change for Wildcat. It has transformed the aircraft into a true multi-role strike platform. Already employed in the defence of UK interests in the Middle East to great effect, it allows us to engage and defeat a variety of threats from surface ships to airborne drones with precision and confidence, in all environments.”
About Thales
Thales (thalesgroup.com) is a global leader in advanced technologies for the Defence, Aerospace, and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services helps address several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion.
The Group allocates €4.5 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Quantum and Cloud technologies.
Thales has more than 85,000 employees in 65 countries. In 2025, the Group generated sales of €22.1 billion.
Recent images of Thales and its Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital activities can be found on the Thales Media Library. For any specific requests, please contact the Media Relations team.
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