Emirati state-owned defense conglomerate EDGE and Israeli state-owned aerospace firm IAI on Thursday signed an agreement to jointly design unmanned military and commercial vessels.
A joint statement said the "17 M" unmanned surface vessels would be designed to carrying out security operations, mine sweeping and surveillance, among other capabilities.
The United Arab Emirates and Israel established diplomatic ties last year in a deal brokered by the United States.
Faisal Al Bannai, CEO and Managing Director of EDGE Group, said: “It is an important milestone for EDGE to forge collaborations with leading defense players such as IAI to strengthen our advanced technology portfolio.”
“Through this strategic alliance, we can ensure optimal autonomous operational solutions that minimize risk to human life, address key challenges for various industries, and enable a secure future for all. These developments will open many doors for us in local and global markets, military and commercial alike,” he added.
President and CEO of IAI Boaz Levy said he was proud to join hands with EDGE in the new endeavor.
“This MOU brings together the best technological knowhow from both companies – EDGE Group’s and ADSB’ naval and commercial vessel expertise, and IAI’s expertise in autonomous systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence – for a joint Made in UAE effort, maximizing both companies’ business opportunities and growth,” he added.
