ST Engineering iDirect to Supply Electronics for Exail’s Underwater Drones in Belgian-Dutch MCM Program

Exail has selected ST Engineering iDirect’s Manufacturing Competence Center (MCC) to provide electronics for its underwater drones used in the joint Mine Counter Measure (MCM) program for the Belgian and Dutch navies.

The program, awarded in 2020 to the Belgium Naval & Robotics consortium (Naval Group and Exail), aims to enhance mine warfare capabilities through advanced drones.

According to Exail's report, these drones will be equipped with a range of sensors and electronics developed by ST Engineering iDirect, enabling them to perform critical tasks such as mine detection, classification, and neutralization with exceptional precision.

Danny De Smet, Sales and Marketing at ST Engineering iDirect, said, "We’re excited that Exail has chosen us for their underwater drone electronics. This partnership reinforces MCC’s role in delivering high-reliability assemblies and supports vital EU defense capabilities."

Steven Luys, CEO of Exail, added, "ST Engineering iDirect’s MCC team is exceptional. This collaboration strengthens EU supply chains and showcases Europe's talent in advanced technologies."

Located in Erpe-Mere, Belgium, ST Engineering iDirect’s MCC specializes in high-reliability electronics manufacturing, custom component sourcing, and rigorous testing protocols—all crucial for the deployment of military-grade equipment.