Kongsberg and Thales form defence communications joint venture
COPENHAGEN, June 27 (Reuters) - Norway's Kongsberg Gruppen (KOG.OL), opens new tab and France's Thales (TCFP.PA), opens new tab said on Friday they would establish a joint venture in Norway combining their defence communications businesses.
The tie-up comes in response to European defence forces' calls for interoperability, sovereignty and large-scale equipment as NATO countries and others face growing connectivity needs, Kongsberg said in a statement.
"By consolidating Kongsberg's secure communications and Thales' crypto expertise, we will create a comprehensive, robust communications offering and be better positioned to deliver and develop current and future technologies and services to the armed forces," said Erik Lie, who heads Kongsberg's defence and aerospace unit.
The new company will be owned 50% each by the two defence groups and will employ around 350 people across Norway.
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