Thales jumps to No. 22 in TIME and Statista’s "World’s Best Companies 2026" list

Thales has leapt over 200 places in TIME and Statista’s annual ranking of the world’s leading companies, reaching No. 22 and demonstrating strong momentum across key areas.

Thales is now the second highest ranked French company in the list, and the first company in the aerospace and defence sectors.

Each year, the statistical study evaluates companies equally across three pillars: Employee Satisfaction, Sustainability Transparency (ESG), and Revenue Growth. For Thales, the year-on-year rise in 2026 reflects a rare combination: increased job satisfaction alongside clear, measurable ESG disclosure and continued business success.

Discover TIME magazine 'World's Best Companies of 2026' list.

Talent attraction and engagement at the core

Thales’ long-term growth and technology leadership depend, in particular, on attracting and engaging the best people. The Group supports a proactive talent pipeline, building close ties with schools and universities worldwide. Each year, Thales welcomes more than 4,000 interns and apprentices globally. In 2025, Thales received more than 1.4 million job applications and hired over 8,800 people. For 2026, it plans to recruit 9,000 people, with 40% in engineering and 25% in industrial roles. 

ESG transparency and commitments through PROTECT

Thales continues to deliver against its CSR commitments. Last year, the Group met all its CSR targets on three pillars: Society, Planet and People and was included in the CDP Climate A List for the third consecutive year. Under its PROTECT sustainability roadmap, Thales has also set nine targets for 2030 to help make the world safer, greener and more inclusive. 

Learn more about Thales' CSR commitments.

Strong performance, driven by R&D and innovation

Over the last three years, Thales revenue has increased markedly, reaching €22.1 billion in 2025. The Group continues to invest heavily in innovation, with €4.5 billion dedicated to R&D every year, including €1.3 billion in self-funded innovation.

With 34,000 engineers working on advances in areas including trusted AI, edge computing, cryptography, 6G and quantum technologies, Thales is strengthening its ability to meet evolving customer requirements in dynamic markets.