Investigations Against Thales Over Suspicion of Bribery

The UK's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has launched investigations into the defense company Thales due to serious allegations of suspected bribery and corruption. This investigation is being conducted in collaboration with the French financial prosecutor's office, Parquet National Financier, with the company listed on the French stock exchange being informed of the investigations. Thales, headquartered in Paris, employs over 7,000 people in the UK at 16 locations. The company, partly owned by the French state, develops advanced technology, sensors, and software for major defense projects like the Rafale fighter jet and also supplies technology for civil aviation. In Belfast, Northern Ireland, the company produces missiles and launchers, including the Starstreak shoulder-fired missile donated by the British government to Ukraine. Thales also manufactures sonar systems for the Royal Navy's submarines. This matter marks the first investigation of a major listed company under Nick Ephgrave, who took over the leadership of the SFO last year. Under Ephgrave, the SFO has initiated six investigations, yet faced criticism for not adequately pursuing larger companies with international operations. “Close collaboration with our international partners is a crucial factor in combating international corruption, and with this case, I hope to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the SFO and the PNF,” Ephgrave stated. “We will jointly explore all avenues to thoroughly investigate the allegations," he added. Thales confirmed that the SFO and the PNF have launched an investigation "regarding four of its units in France and the UK." The company is cooperating with both the PNF in France and the SFO in the UK. “The group adheres to all national and international regulations. As the investigations are ongoing, Thales will give no further comments,” a statement said. This news follows the recent closure of a four-year SFO investigation into the aircraft manufacturer Bombardier. The SFO stated that foreign authorities are best suited to bring this case to a conclusion and that the agency will cooperate with its international partners in their investigations.