Safran and Thales have acquired Areva’s 20% stake in Sofradir, their jointly owned subsidiary and a world-class centre of excellence in infrared detector technology.

Sofradir is a leading supplier of infrared detectors to the optronics industry. Its technologies are used for a wide range of commercial and military applications, particularly night vision equipment.

Sofradir employed 550 people and generated revenue of around €150 million. Most of its employees are based at the company’s development and production centre in Veurey-Voroize, near Grenoble, France.

Safran and Thales have raised their respective stake to 50% of Sofradir, compared to 40% previously.

This transaction is part of the optronics partnership between Safran and Thales that was signed on 20 December 2011.