The UAE’s defense conglomerate EDGE has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a leading aerospace and aviation manufacturer, to develop an advanced C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aircraft System) which can detect and prevent a wide range of threats.
As per the statement from the companies, EDGE’s subsidiary SIGN4L, which is specialized in developing electronic warfare systems, will collaborate with the Israeli manufacturer on the new project.
The C-UAS of IAI is a fully autonomous system that comprises advanced 3D radar, COMINT (communications intelligence), and Electro-Optic technologies that are integrated into a unified command and control system. Further, a series of countermeasures, ranging from soft-kill solutions such as spoofing and jamming to hard-kill capabilities like lasers and electromagnetic pulses, are offered based on the level of threat and targeted operating environment.
Faisal Al Bannai CEO & MD EDGE
“In line with the Abraham Accord and the UAE’s newly-established cooperation with Israel, it is a defining moment for us to join forces with IAI. As EDGE invests extensively in autonomous capabilities, our co-development of a Counter-UAS will help strengthen our advanced technology portfolio.”
Both SIGN4L and IAI will strengthen their technical capacities to develop the system following the specific customer needs. Additional support will be available through IAI’s partnership with Belgium Advanced Technology Systems which has a technical and marketing presence in the region.
Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI, commented on the MoU by stating, “IAI is proud to join forces with EDGE, to provide the UAE and wider region with a unique and advanced solution in what is a key area of expertise for IAI. This MoU serves as a stepping-stone for further business and strategic alliances between our countries, and will enhance cooperation for R&D and technological innovation.”
In last year September, the UAE and Israel normalized relations and made several agreements in various sectors ranging from aviation to finance. According to Etihad Credit Insurance, bilateral trade between the two countries is expected to reach $4 billion in a year.
