Thales: Marking Armed Forces Week across our sites for 2026

Armed Forces Week is more than just a moment in the calendar for Thales, it is a reflection of our enduring commitment to those who serve. It’s an annual opportunity for us to pay tribute to every individual connected to the Armed Forces community.

This year, teams across our sites marked Armed Forces Week in a variety of meaningful ways, with a particular focus on raising awareness of the Reserves and the role they play alongside civilian careers.

Reservists make up around 18–20% of the UK Armed Forces, training to the same high standards as regular personnel and can be deployed in operational environments, including conflict zones. What distinguishes Reservists is that they balance military service alongside civilian careers, bringing additional skills and experience between both environments.

At Thales, colleagues who wish to join the Reserves can be supported with paid leave to support Reservist training or duties; and flexibility to support extended deployments where specialist skills are required. 

Throughout the week: 

• Sites welcomed members of the Royal Navy, Army and Air Force Reserves, offering the chance to experience equipment first-hand and take part in open conversations about reserve service. 

• Reservists within the business were encouraged to come into work in uniform, helping to make visible the scale and diversity of service within our workforce.

• Many sites hosted informal “Meet the Armed Forces Network” brew sessions, giving colleagues the opportunity to connect with the Armed Forces Network and better understand the support available.