Israel Aerospace Industries has announced that it is entering into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Abu Dhabi-based military contractor EDGE to deliver a cutting-edge counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS).
IAI will be working closely alongside EDGE’s subsidiary SIGN4L, which specialises in electronic warfare, to manufacture the systems.
It is expected that the C-UAS will include elements from both IAI and SIGN4L. Its capabilities will range from missiles, laser and electromagnetic weapons, through to radar jamming capabilities and advanced radar systems.
It is further expected that IAI will be able to use their existing relationship with Belgium Advanced Technology Systems to deliver the systems.
His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, CEO and managing director of EDGE, welcomed the MoU between the two companies.
“In line with the recent Abraham Accords and the UAE’s newly established cooperation and spirit of collaboration with Israel, EDGE and IAI are joining forces to deal with this growing threat,” he said.
“Unmanned aircraft systems today are a preferred solution in building agility and resilience to the emerging challenges of asymmetric warfare.
“As EDGE invests extensively in autonomous capabilities, our co-development of a counter-UAS in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries will only help strengthen our advanced technology portfolio, and partnerships in the region and internationally.”
The MoU was similarly welcomed by the president and CEO of IAI Boaz Levy.
“IAI is proud to join forces with EDGE, to provide the UAE and the wider region with a unique and advanced solution in what is a key area of expertise for IAI. We believe that this collaboration will help both companies through the transfer of knowledge and sharing of capabilities.
“This MoU serves as a stepping-stone for further business and strategic alliances between our countries, and will enhance co-operation for R&D and technological innovation,” Levy said.
Article written by Liam Garman.
