Thales Introduces SkyDefender, an Integrated Air and Missile Defence Dome Enhanced by Artificial Intelligence

Thales has unveiled SkyDefender, a comprehensive air and missile defence system engineered to counter the full spectrum of modern aerial threats. With adversaries deploying everything from small unmanned systems to hypersonic weapons, the company positions SkyDefender as a multi‑domain solution capable of protecting forces and critical infrastructure across land, sea and space.

The system integrates Thales’ latest sensing, command and control and artificial intelligence technologies, drawing on the company’s cortAIx accelerator to enhance threat detection, decision support and cyber resilience.

Coverage From Short Range to Strategic Distances

SkyDefender is structured around a layered defence model that spans several operational ranges.

Short‑range protection is provided through ForceShield, which creates a defensive bubble against drones and other low‑altitude threats. At the medium‑range tier, the system incorporates the SAMP‑T NG solution from eurosam, supported by Thales’ Ground Fire radar with a 350 kilometre detection range and full 360 degree coverage.

For long‑range and early warning missions, SkyDefender integrates Thales SMART‑L MM and UHF radars capable of detecting targets at distances up to 5,000 kilometres. Thales Alenia Space contributes a geostationary early warning capability using infrared‑equipped satellites that can identify missile launches before they enter ground radar coverage. Together, these assets provide persistent surveillance and trajectory tracking for high‑end threats, including ballistic missiles.

Unified Command and Control Across Domains

All system elements are coordinated through the SkyView command and control suite, with SkyView Alliance enabling interoperability with NATO and allied platforms. The architecture is open and modular, allowing SkyDefender to integrate with existing defence systems and to evolve as new technologies and threats emerge.

Thales emphasizes that the system is compatible with a wide range of sensors and effectors from multiple manufacturers, supporting both legacy and next‑generation platforms.

Industry Partnerships and Global Availability

Thales notes that SkyDefender is available for deployment today and can be delivered in partnership with other industrial players. The company highlights its intent to support national sovereignty by offering a system that is combat proven, adaptable and designed for long‑term modernization.

About Thales

Thales is a global provider of advanced technologies for the defence, aerospace and cyber sectors. The company invests heavily in research and development across artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum technologies and cloud systems. Thales employs more than 85,000 people in 65 countries and reported sales of 22.1 billion euros in 2025.