Non-lethal weapons: “We have significant demands from certain markets”
Do we still need humans to produce weapons, with 3D printers today?
Our industrial facilities can include digital machine control, robotics in production processes and 3D printing at an early stage. However, human expertise is irreplaceable for high value-added tasks. Moreover, the transmission of specific know-how is done through companionship with experienced employees.
Are job creations planned?
We will create at least sixty jobs on our sites. This allows us to take a long-term view. But speed should not be confused with haste.
Where do you stand with gun safety and possible reduction of deaths during use?
We meet the needs of the various law enforcement and security forces. We have significant demands in certain markets. We will also see how our customers will place orders. In 2023, the FN Smart ProtectoR®-303T was launched as a world premiere. It is a compressed air launcher that detects human heads and significantly reduces the risk of injury during law enforcement and public safety operations. There is also the FN VictoR®, a high-tech device that combines an intelligent camera and image processing software, integrated into a firearm or launcher, with a range of cutting-edge applications. It can be used as an individual and group training system.
“Diversification and research are essential”
Are you confident in the future?
“On November 17, 2023, the Belgian government approved the implementation of a long-term strategic partnership bringing together Belgian Defense and FN Herstal. It guarantees security of supply of small caliber ammunition to Belgium over a period of 20 years and also includes maintaining the armed forces’ fleet of small arms and joint research and development (R&D) projects in operational condition. This will lead to an intensification of investments underway for several years in Herstal and Zutendaal. It will enable the creation of sustainable jobs on both sites. »
Where is the internal fraud file?
“We have submitted the file to the investigating judge. »
Some media have said that FN weapons were found in Russia?
“We only supply weapons to the various European NATO governments and their allies around the world. »
We don’t always know it, but you don’t just produce weapons?
“Diversification is important: laser telemetry, electronic cards, FNX… FN Browning Group is an international company which markets world-renowned brands: FN, Browning, Winchester and Noptel which specializes in the design and manufacture of innovative optoelectronic products, using advanced technologies in the field of distance measurement: for traffic and speed control, sea rescue, border control, construction and urban planning, mining and drones. »
Aren’t you afraid of being overtaken by other industries in the world?
“The Defense and Security division, for example, invests around 10% of its turnover in R&D. The group’s R&D departments are based on more than 200 talented people who combine cutting-edge expertise and passion for technology and innovation. »
Do you also work at the local level on research?
“The revolutionary new security technology investment fund and launch of FNX Ventures is a pioneering initiative born from the collaboration between WE and the Herstal Group. This innovative investment fund focuses exclusively on security technologies, marking a significant step forward in supporting innovative start-ups from the Benelux, France and Germany. Furthermore, AI has become an essential component in the arms industry in the broad sense, such as the deFNder® Mk2 remotely operated station and its naval version Sea deFNder®, which offers an object detection and classification solution. naval and air capabilities improved by the use of artificial intelligence. A functionality which is particularly expected to integrate the new mine hunters of the Belgian and Dutch navies, and which will increase the defense capabilities of the ships. »
We see the success of drones, in the war in Ukraine in particular… Do you have any plans in this area?
“At the European level, in particular, the company participates in joint development programs in order to strengthen its capabilities in infantry and integrated weapons systems and to develop an area of diversification. The EDIDP JEY-CUAS project aims to develop a European capacity to combat unmanned aerial systems and small and medium-sized drones. This project led by Leonardo began in 2022 and will end in 2024.”
In the field of weapons, is it possible to have lasting reflection?
“Our ambition is to reduce our CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions. In 2023, the company began installing 4,000 photovoltaic panels. In 2024, the company will produce 7% of its own electricity and new panels will be added to the initial 4,000 to cover 25% of the factory’s consumption in the medium term. In addition, we carry out other actions: for example, 60 students from two primary schools in Herstal planted 3,400 shrubs and plants near the FN Herstal factory. »
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