The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has initiated a significant investigation into defence company Thales regarding allegations of bribery and corruption. The probe, announced on Thursday, marks a collaborative effort between the UK agency and France’s Parquet National Financier (PNF).
The French-listed company, which maintains substantial operations in the UK with over 7,000 employees across 16 sites, has been formally notified of the investigation. Thales, partially owned by the French state, specialises in defence technology, including the manufacture of sensors and software utilised in major military programmes such as the Rafale fighter jet.
The investigation represents the first major case targeting a public company under the leadership of SFO director Nick Ephgrave, who assumed his position last year. The agency has launched six investigations under Ephgrave’s tenure, though it has faced scrutiny for its perceived reluctance to pursue larger multinational corporations.
Thales’s Belfast facility, which produces missiles and launchers including the Starstreak missile system currently deployed in Ukraine, forms a crucial part of the company’s UK operations. The organisation also manufactures essential sonar systems for Royal Navy submarines.
The defence giant has acknowledged the investigation, confirming that four of its entities across France and the UK are under scrutiny. A company spokesperson stated that Thales is actively cooperating with both the PNF and SFO, while emphasising their commitment to compliance with national and international regulations.
This development follows the SFO’s recent closure of a four-year investigation into aircraft manufacturer Bombardier, with the agency deferring to ongoing probes in the United States and Canada.
Post Disclaimer
The following content has been published by Stockmark.IT. All information utilised in the creation of this communication has been gathered from publicly available sources that we consider reliable. Nevertheless, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this communication.
This communication is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as an offer, recommendation, solicitation, inducement, or invitation by or on behalf of the Company or any affiliates to engage in any investment activities. The opinions and views expressed by the authors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Company, its affiliates, or any other third party.
The services and products mentioned in this communication may not be suitable for all recipients, by continuing to read this website and its content you agree to the terms of this disclaimer.