Thales has signed a manufacturing contract with India-based SFO Technologies to produce complex wired structures for the RBE2 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar fitted on the Rafale fighter aircraft operated by the Indian Armed Forces. The RBE2 radar is a critical sensor developed by Thales for Dassault Aviation’s Rafale platform, enabling advanced combat and surveillance capabilities.
According to the companies, this marks the first time Thales has placed an order of this nature with SFO Technologies for the RBE2 radar. The agreement is part of Thales’ wider localization strategy in India, although neither the financial value of the contract nor the number of radar units included in the initial order has been disclosed.
Under the contract, SFO Technologies will undertake manufacturing activities such as wiring, assembly, and integration of radar-related structures. The RBE2 AESA radar plays a central role in Rafale operations, supporting air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, target detection and tracking, and electronic warfare functions.
The award follows India’s 2023 decision to procure 26 Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Navy, intended for carrier-based operations. By localizing key elements of radar production, Thales aims to enhance supply chain resilience and reduce dependence on overseas manufacturing, aligning with India’s “Make in India” initiative to boost domestic defense production and industrial capability.
