Thales, the technology and defense group, confirmed on Tuesday its growth and margin outlook for 2026 after reporting a strong increase in activity in the first quarter, driven by high demand for its defense solutions.
In the January to March period, Thales’ revenues reached €5.32 billion, up 7.2% in reported data and 9.7% organically compared to the first quarter of 2025. In the defense sector, revenue rose by 14.3% organically on an annual basis, reaching €3.05 billion.
“The growth momentum in defense is strong,” highlighted Pascal Bouchiat, Thales’ Chief Financial and Information Systems Director, during a conference with journalists. “We benefit from our investments and the increase in our production capacity,” he added.
Meanwhile, Thales’ order intake stood at €4.65 billion in the first quarter, marking a 23% increase in reported data and a 27% increase organically compared to a year ago. In defense, order intake soared by 75% organically year-on-year.
Thales, known for its expertise in mine warfare, emphasized the relevance of its solutions in the face of recent events, particularly in the Middle East, highlighting surveillance, air defense, and underwater mine warfare capabilities. Thales recently secured a contract to supply Qatar with Ground Master 200 MM/A and Ground Master 400 Alpha radars in January.
Analysts’ consensus on Thales’ website forecasted order intake of €4.85 billion and revenue of €5.19 billion for the first three months of the year, with organic growth of 6.5% year-on-year.
Looking ahead, Thales maintains its outlook for organic revenue growth of 6% to 7% this year, aiming for revenue between €23.3 billion and €23.6 billion. Additionally, the company targets an EBIT adjusted margin of 12.6% to 12.8% for the year.
For financial updates from Thales, visit their Investor Relations page at Thales Investor Relations or follow news on Agefi-Dow Jones, The financial newswire.
