MBDA secured a record €13.8 billion in orders for 2024, with CEO Eric Béranger emphasizing Europe’s urgent need for defense self-reliance amid shifting global alliances. The company plans to double its missile production by 2025 compared to 2023 and will invest €2.4 billion in production expansion, hiring 2,600 new employees. Additionally, OCCAR-EA and Eurosam signed an agreement to accelerate Aster missile production, reinforcing Europe’s air defense capabilities. Béranger’s remarks follow growing concerns over Europe’s reliance on non-European defense suppliers, coinciding with Canada’s reconsideration of its F-35 purchase from the U.S. As geopolitical uncertainties rise, MBDA’s push for a stronger European defense industry aligns with broader efforts to reduce dependence on American weapon systems.
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