Safran and Babcock advance Franco-British defence collaboration at Paris Air Show

Image courtesy Safran / Babcock

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed at the Paris Air Show, aims to combine the world-class expertise of Safran and Babcock to deliver advanced, competitive, and innovative solutions for the UK, France, and international defence markets.

It builds on a longstanding and trusted partnership between two key players in the defence sector, whose capabilities support products from submarines to satellites and will involve the companies jointly pursuing major defence programmes in land, naval, and air domains, and accelerating the development and integration of new technologies.

The MoU also supports the shared ambitions of the British and French governments to enhance bilateral defence ties through the Lancaster House Treaties. It reflects a common commitment to strengthening European security and building a resilient, sovereign industrial base for future defence challenges.

Cooperation under this agreement will include joint research and development opportunities, sharing best practices across engineering, manufacturing, and support, and bolstering supply chain resilience to protect sovereignty and security of supply. Both companies are dedicated to supporting government strategies that drive economic growth and create high-value jobs in both nations.

Franck Saudo, President of Safran Electronics & Defense, stated: “This new step embodies the deep trust and enduring relationship between France and the United Kingdom. By pooling our expertise and resources, we are better positioned to address evolving defence needs and support the ambitions set by our governments to reinforce Franco-British leadership in the sector.”

David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, added: “Our defence customers need the assurance that industry is working together to develop and deliver the best, and most innovative, products and services. Babcock and Safran will develop our relationship to increase military support, while strengthening the partnership between France and UK.”

Through this strengthened alliance, Safran and Babcock reaffirm their commitment to advancing Franco-British cooperation for the benefit of national security, economic prosperity and European defence leadership.