Sofradir, new leader of the infrared detection

In order to consolidate the French sector of infrared detection, Safran and Thales have decided to strengthen the skills of their joint venture, Sofradir, by bringing their activities in this area. Philippe Petitcolin, Director General Defense / Security Safran Chairman and CEO of Sagem, specifies the objectives of the new leader of the industry.

What are the steps that led to the consolidation of infrared Sagem (Safran) and Thales in Sofradir?

In December 2011, Thales and Safran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the whole of the sector optronics French. This agreement provided for initially creating a joint venture equally owned and new programs dedicated to optronic defense and, Optrolead was born in July 2012. Another aspect of this cooperation, the strengthening of the French sector of the infrared detection around our joint venture, Sofradir. This consolidation has been active since January 1, 2013, took place in two stages. Firstly, with the acquisition in January 2012 of 20% participation of Areva, allowing Thales and Safran Sofradir hold equally. Then, with the acquisition Sofradir development activities and manufacturing of infrared detectors each of its two parent companies.

What are the objectives of commercial and industrial Sofradir?

In the infrared, high performance - that is to say cooled infrared, Sofradir is 25 years a recognized expert.The company controls several years technology mercury cadmium telluride. But this technology has some limitations which today covers less than 50% of the market cooled infrared. Semiconductors using indium antimonide, developed by Sagem, and provide an additional range very useful as they will cover the remaining 50% of the market cooled infrared. These

skills will be grouped transferred before the end of next year in a new site 4000 m2, located in Palaiseau on the Saclay plateau.

What is the roadmap for this new group, European leader in infrared detection?

This combination of expertise within a single structure Sofradir brought in the very exclusive club of manufacturers controlling all sensors infrared technologies. The company now has the means to develop these technologies to better the world. This expertise will be used by Thales and Safran for the development of new products and may also be offered to external customers. This building skills Sofradir represents a major development for this strategic sector, and should allow the creation of highly skilled jobs in France.