Thales aims to strengthen its presence in India while contributing to the global supply chain. Pascale Sourisse, President and CEO, Thales International, emphasised that India produces a vast pool of highly skilled engineers, making it an ideal location for expanding the company's engineering capabilities.
"We plan to double engineers in India in a very short time," Sourisse told NDTV Profit. With 20% of its revenue invested in research and development, Thales aims to leverage India's engineering talent to support its global growth.
Sourisse further noted that Thales aims to achieve 60% Indian content in its solutions, meaning a continual transfer of competencies in various domains to India. This includes manufacturing, extensive engineering, and support services that are close to customers. Thales is also focused on sustainability, ensuring that every new competency developed in India is viable for export.
Thales has also been a user of artificial intelligence, with more than 150 AI-enabled products. The company is focusing on developing trustworthy, explainable, and cyber-secure AI systems, particularly for applications in aviation, where energy resources are limited.
AI's growing importance in India is clear, as the country is set to become a major user of AI-driven systems that process sensitive data, creating a significant demand for engineers skilled in AI technologies, she said.
AI is becoming increasingly integrated into all of Thales' solutions, particularly in systems that rely on sensors and data capture. Whether it's aeronautics, space, or any field involving sensors, AI helps operators manage systems more efficiently by improving decision-making and enhancing the accuracy of data and sensors.
Discussing the increasing number of startups in the sector, Sourisse said that the company adopts an open innovation policy, collaborating with smaller companies and startups, particularly those with innovative technologies. By combining Thales' experience in delivering complex systems with the agility of startups, the company ensures the quality and reliability of its products.
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