A Nikkei analysis reported that French defense giant Thales plans to establish a full-scale base in Japan, with weapons production at Japan Steel Works expected to begin in 2027. Japan could eventually become a base for exporting Japanese-made weapons to Asia.
Following a Nikkei report dated 12 October, plans emerged for French defense giant Thales to establish a base in Japan. The article reported that the company is preparing a manufacturing and supply system in Japan, with a view to using it as an export base not only for the Japanese market but also for Asia.
Thales has supplied equipment including the 120mm 2R2M mortar to the Ground Self-Defense Force. It is described as a large company with revenue of approximately ¥3.9 trillion and approximately 85,000 employees in 2025. The company said that establishing a full-scale base in Japan would strengthen its supply chain.