French defence company Thales is set to establish a maintenance and operational support base in Japan, marking a significant development in the country’s defence industry. According to a report published by The Japan Times on Monday, 12 October 2026, the move is believed to be the first time a foreign defence contractor has established a dedicated facility in Japan to maintain and support the operation of Japanese military equipment.
Thales Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Patrice Caine described the planned facility as an important milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to Japan. The development is expected to strengthen cooperation between the French defence manufacturer and Japan’s military establishment.
Thales already supplies equipment to Japan’s Self-Defence Forces. The company is also considering opportunities to expand its operations into civilian applications in the future, potentially broadening its contribution to Japan’s technological and industrial sectors.
Caine identified radar and sonar technologies as possible areas for further cooperation, noting that Thales hopes to support Japan in fields where the company has a technological and performance advantage.
As part of its expanding partnership with Japan, Thales will also transfer technology to Japanese industrial partner Japan Steel Works. Production of the French company’s 2R2M heavy mortar system is expected to begin in Japan in 2027, according to the report.
The development comes as Japan increases its defence spending in response to China’s expanding military capabilities and continuing security concerns surrounding North Korea. Under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, the Japanese government is strengthening its defence capabilities, signalling a shift away from the country’s traditionally restrictive, post-war approach to military power, which has emphasised self-defence.
Thales’ planned support base and technology-transfer arrangement reflect Japan’s growing interest in strengthening domestic defence production, improving equipment maintenance and deepening international defence partnerships amid rising regional security tensions.
