In early June, an attempted arson incident occurred at the Delair facility in southwestern France, where unknown individuals threw Molotov cocktails at the building. The company specializes in drone technology, including equipment used by Ukraine.
According to reports from Le Parisien, the attackers aimed to ignite the structure, but the incendiary devices failed to catch fire. Three days later, authorities apprehended a 48-year-old Belarusian man near the factory, who was allegedly conducting covert filming of drone prototype tests. He has since been placed in custody.
The French Directorate General of Internal Security suspects that these actions may be orchestrated by a foreign nation, with Russia being a likely candidate. Investigators have reportedly established that the detained individual sent video footage to a contact in Russia.
Delair is recognized as a leading manufacturer within the French drone industry, focusing on both civilian and military applications. Since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the company has become a vital supplier, experiencing a significant increase in orders since 2022.
An attempted arson targeting Delair, a French drone manufacturer, raises concerns of foreign espionage, particularly involving Russia. The incident highlights the increasing risks faced by companies involved in defense technology amid geopolitical tensions.