French automaker Renault is expanding into military drone manufacturing by partnering with defense firms to produce loitering munitions and long-range systems starting in 2027, using its factory expertise to drive down equipment costs as car demand drops.
Major international vehicle groups including Volkswagen and General Motors are exploring defense work alongside Renault to help build defence equipment at a lower cost by utilizing factory floors that are not currently running at full capacity.
Additional automotive suppliers such as Continental, Forvia, Valeo, and Schaeffler are similarly exploring military manufacturing opportunities.
Renault Partners With Thales to Scale Toutatis Loitering Munitions by 2027
Renault engineers reviewed existing military drone designs and concluded that many models were far too complex for high-volume assembly lines. By redesigning components, the engineering teams reduced the Toutatis model by 20 percent fewer parts and 40 percent fewer fixations such as screws. These modifications allow factories to build the unmanned aircraft much faster while integrating advanced anti-jamming electronic systems and warheads capable of striking armored vehicles or infantry troops.
The companies worked jointly on the engineering design of the drones, not only to share costs, but also to share expertise.
François Provost, Chief Executive Officer of Renault
Renault Collaborates With Turgis Gaillard on Chorus Long-Range Weapon Production
Beyond the Thales partnership, Renault is also collaborating with defense firm Turgis Gaillard on a larger system known as Chorus.
The French procurement agency noted that the Chorus project has already attracted interest from Ukraine, where ongoing conflicts have accelerated the demand for low-cost, rapidly deployable hardware. European nations want factories that can quickly make and update drones instead of stockpiling huge numbers of older systems.
Economic Pressures and Labor Opposition Shape Renault’s Defense Strategy
Renault is still being careful about how far it moves into defense, seeking projects where its factory skills can make a real difference while also working to lower electric vehicle costs and compete with Chinese car makers.
Some labor groups at Renault, including the CGT, have registered opposition to the company’s expansion into the defense sector, highlighting the tensions between traditional automotive manufacturing and military production.
