Sagem And Thales Launch Joint Venture, Optrolead

Following a Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2011, Sagem and Thales today announced the creation of OPTROLEAD; an equally-owned joint venture for the production of optronics. OPTROLEAD will be responsible for the sale of future optronic systems, particularly in for defense applications. The new company is staking out a position in several major programs, including the optronic payload for the planned upgrade of the French navy’s Atlantique 2 (ATL2) maritime patrol aircraft, the imaging system for the future French-British MALE (medium-altitude, long-endurance) drone, modular optronic systems for army combat vehicles, and optronics for tomorrow’s helicopters. "We have taken an important step forward in consolidating and enhancing synergies within the French optronics industry," said Serge Adrian. "Our new company OPTROLEAD will effectively combine the leading areas of expertise of its two parent companies". "OPTROLEAD is already capable of coordinating contracts directly with customers of Sagem and Thales," added Philippe Petitcolin.