FTSE 100-listed Metlen has teamed up with Thales Alenia Space and Thales Hellas to explore opportunities linked to Greece's future defence telecommunications satellite programme

The collaboration brings together the industrial and technological capabilities of the three companies as Greece seeks to strengthen its sovereignty, security and strategic autonomy in space.

Under the deal, the partners will assess how their expertise could contribute to the development of an end-to-end defence telecommunications system, while supporting technology transfer and the expansion of Greece's domestic space industry.

Metlen's M Technologies division is expected to play a role in the initiative, while the group could also leverage its gallium production capabilities to supply materials for future satellites built by Thales Alenia Space, the joint venture between France's Thales and Italy's Leonardo, thereby deepening Metlen's exposure to defence technology and high-value space supply chains. Gallium is a critical material used in advanced semiconductors and satellite technologies.

The proposed satellite platform would be designed to provide secure, resilient and jam-resistant communications, helping to enhance Greece's national security infrastructure.

For Metlen, the agreement represents another step in broadening its defence and technology credentials beyond its traditional energy and metals operations, but the collaboration remains exploratory, with no firm satellite programme contract or financial details disclosed.

Metlen, which is listed in London and Athens, reported revenue of €7.11bn, EBITDA of €753m and net profit of €314m in 2025.

Shares were up 0.2% at €48.84 in morning trading.

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