This partnership is a strategic step to strengthen the national defense industry, promoting technological sovereignty, creating specialized jobs, and integrating Brazil into global value chains
Stella Technology, a Brazilian company renowned for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and the Thales Group have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop advanced surveillance and defense systems for UAVs in Brazil.
The agreement was formalized during the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition in Rio de Janeiro, facilitated by Omnisys Engineering, a Thales subsidiary in Brazil.
It opens the path for NATO member countries to access cutting-edge solutions developed in Brazil amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
Cutting-Edge Technology
As a Strategic Defense Company (EED), Stella Technology is a pioneer in developing MALE (Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance) UAVs in Brazil. Its portfolio includes the Atobá, the largest UAV of this class developed in the country, measuring 8 meters in length, 11 meters in wingspan, and with a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 500 kg.
“The partnership with Thales expands our innovation boundaries and reinforces international confidence in our technological capabilities. The synergy between our competencies will represent a significant gain for developing critical solutions that meet Brazil’s and the international market’s demands,” said Gilberto Buffara, CEO of Stella.
The partnership ensures that all development and maintenance of solutions will occur in Brazil, strengthening the defense industrial base and consolidating the country as a relevant player in the global unmanned aerial technologies scene.
Global Reference
With over 40 years of experience in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, Thales is a global leader in unmanned aerial systems. Its portfolio includes the Watchkeeper, Europe’s largest UAV program, with over 100,000 operational flight hours across various fronts.
“By combining our expertise in advanced systems with Stella’s development capabilities, we are creating strategic solutions to strengthen defense and security in Brazil. This is an important step to expand the presence of national technologies in the sector, boosting the local industry and promoting greater autonomy for our clients,” said Luciano Macaferri, Vice President of Thales Latin America and General Director for Brazil.
UAVs have increasingly played a crucial role in defense planning, providing real-time situational awareness for more effective strategic decisions.
According to a Business Research Insights report from February 2025, the global UAV market is experiencing strong growth, with annual growth forecasts between 15% and 20%. This advancement is driven by technological innovations, increased regulatory acceptance, and expanding commercial and defense applications.
Collaboration between drone manufacturers and companies selling onboard systems is essential for maximizing UAV performance, safety, and effectiveness across various applications.
