Companies to Collaborate on Systems for K50 Platform

British maritime vessel developer Kraken Technology Group and French-headquartered defence prime Thales have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop systems for Kraken’s K50 precision engagement platform.

The companies will also collaborate on the development of further “advanced composite high-performance craft” and “electric and advanced hybrid powertrain solutions,” according to a joint news release. The work will take place at a new engineering and technology centre, which the release implies will be established in the UK.

Thales believes its Martlet lightweight multirole missile will work well when integrated onto the K50. The missile has performed well against threats including fast inshore attack craft, UAVs and fast jets, the company says, arguing that it “align[s] … perfectly with Kraken’s key principles of high performance, multi-role use and adaptability.” Integration will be conducted in partnership with MSI-DSL, who are developing a new lightweight launcher adapted to the requirements of the Martlet.

“We are exceptionally pleased to be teaming with one of the most well-respected names in the defence and security industry,” Kraken founder and CEO, Mal Crease, said in the joint release, adding that his company is “looking forward to working together [with Thales] to address the growing requirement for advanced powertrain and modular composite structure solutions for the precision engagement sector.”

“This arrangement exemplifies Thales’ approach to partnerships and building relationships, working with unique platform capabilities to enhance the offering and choices for the end user,” said Thales’ business-development executive, Ivor Humphrey.