03 NOV 2016

Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) announces today the closing of the acquisition by Thales Alenia Space of RUAG’s opto-electronics business line after receiving the approval by regulatory authorities.

Based in Zürich, RUAG’s opto-electronics and instruments business line is specialized in scientific satellite instruments and in equipment for optical communications in space. The entity employs 75 people and recorded sales of 18 million Swiss francs in 2015 (16.6 million euros).

Thanks to this acquisition, Thales Alenia Space will both expand its European footprint and enhance the solutions it offers for today’s science, earth observation and telecommunications markets.

Patrice Caine, Chairman & CEO of Thales, said: “Thales is very excited that this acquisition has now closed and welcomes RUAG’s talents as part of its family. This acquisition will notably contribute to reinforce our offer in the growing area of satellite constellations.”