The Platforms and Systems cluster at EDGE Group is pivotal in delivering the most advanced defence, security, and technology solutions, covering a wide range of requirements across air, sea, and land domains while focusing on the development of autonomous systems, armoured vehicles, and advanced naval vessels.
To gain a closer insight into EDGE’s key activities and plans to enhance the UAE’s defence capabilities, Al Jundi Journal interviewed Khaled Ahmed Al-Zaabi, President of Platforms and Systems at EDGE Group, and had the following dialogue with him:
Please give us an overview of EDGE Group’s Platforms & Systems cluster.
EDGE is a key contributor to advancements in the UAE’s defence sector and its Platforms & Systems cluster plays a pivotal role in this effort by designing innovative solutions across air, land, and sea domains. From autonomous platforms to armoured vehicles and sophisticated naval vessels, the cluster delivers cutting-edge capabilities tailored to meet local and global defence needs.
Our priority is to drive technological innovation through continuous R&D, ensuring our solutions remain ahead of industry trends. By enhancing sovereign capabilities, we support the UAE’s vision for a self-sufficient defence industry and strengthen the nation’s role as a global leader in defence technology.
How do you envision the future of defence technology in the UAE and what are the goals for the Platforms & Systems division at EDGE?
Our primary goal is to deliver a disruptive, multi-domain portfolio of advanced solutions that strengthen sovereign capabilities and remain highly competitive in global markets. A major focus is on developing autonomous and smart systems, which align with EDGE’s ambition to be a global leader in these fields.
Since EDGE’s launch 5 years ago, we have expanded from a small portfolio of three systems to over 30, with 17 currently in production and another 38 under development.
Our major focus areas include autonomous systems and advanced platforms such as the HT-100, REACH-S, and 170 M-DETECTOR unmanned surface vessels.
Looking ahead, the future of defence technology in the UAE will be shaped by our ability to integrate emerging technologies across material science, AI, and software engineering, building on the UAE’s vision of a self-sufficient, export-driven defence ecosystem.
Equally important is our commitment to nurturing the next generation of highly skilled national talent. By investing in local expertise and driving innovation across air, land, and sea domains, we continue to develop cutting-edge solutions that position the UAE as a global leader in advanced defence technologies.
What is the significance of local and international partnerships and collaborations in EDGE’s strategy to strengthen the UAE’s defence ecosystem?
EDGE is a key driver in expanding and reinforcing the UAE’s defence ecosystem and industrial base. To fulfil this role, we must capitalise on international partnerships to bring advanced technologies to the UAE, while creating an environment for local enterprises to thrive in specialised sectors.
A key differentiator in this field is the speed and agility at which we achieve these milestones. For instance, three months after launching MAESTRAL, our Abu Dhabi-based shipbuilding joint venture with Fincantieri, we secured a €400 million contract with the UAE Coast Guard Forces for ten 51-metre offshore patrol vessels (OPV).
Similarly, two months before MAESTRAL’s launch, we established another joint venture with Indra to develop next-generation radar systems in the UAE, opening a strong pipeline for advanced radar solutions.
Moreover, local industry plays a pivotal role in creating innovative and critical intellectual property. For example, we collaborated with UAE-owned SMEs to develop the RABDA aeronautical engine, which will drive the design and production of numerous UAE-made unmanned aircraft. These efforts align with our broader mission of building a self-sufficient defence ecosystem in the UAE.
How is Artificial Intelligence (AI) integrated into EDGE’s solutions?
AI is a rapidly advancing technology, though still in its early stages of integration into defence solutions. Through significant investments in AI research and development, we’ve identified key areas where AI can address the growing operational challenges our customers face. Today, AI is embedded across several of our industry-leading solutions, enabling autonomous systems to adapt to dynamic environments and enhancing smart weapons with superior target acquisition.
For example, our SHADOW 25 and 50 loitering munitions use AI to help pilots navigate complex terrain, while the AL TARIQ precision-guided munitions feature an optional imaging infrared seeker with automatic target recognition powered by machine learning.
Another notable integration is the Milrem Intelligent Function Integration Kit (MIFIK), which reduces the cognitive load on operators by enabling unmanned ground vehicles to perform tasks in coordinated swarms.
What are the key factors behind EDGE’s ability to position itself as a global leader in defence technology, while focusing on UAE-specific needs?
EDGE has established itself as a global leader in defence technology by combining diverse expertise, strategic partnerships, and a strong dedication to addressing UAE-specific needs.
Spanning air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains, our portfolio is designed to tackle a wide range of global defence challenges. Organised across six clusters, we deliver comprehensive solutions to meet complex defence needs.
Moreover, we prioritise collaborations with international and local partners. These partnerships enhance our technological capabilities and facilitate knowledge exchange, fostering innovation and expanding our global footprint.
While 50% of our contracts in 2023 were international, we remain deeply focused on the UAE’s defence priorities. Our ability to align our solutions with the specific operational requirements of the UAE’s armed forces ensures that we continue to provide the nation with cutting-edge, mission-ready solutions.
How is EDGE contributing to the UAE’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing, particularly in advanced platforms and systems?
EDGE is a key contributor to the UAE’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing, securing significant contracts with the UAE Armed Forces and developing indigenous capabilities that reduce dependency on foreign suppliers.
For example, companies like ADASI and ADSB deliver critical autonomous systems and naval platforms, while AL JASOOR and NIMR supply armoured vehicles tailored to the UAE’s specific military requirements.
In 2023, we secured major contracts, including AED 1.33 billion for SHADOW systems and AED 1.1 billion for HUNTER loitering munitions. These efforts align with our broader strategy to enhance the UAE’s self-sufficiency in defence manufacturing and ensure the nation’s strategic independence in addressing emerging threats.
How does EDGE balance innovation with practicality in delivering cutting-edge platforms and systems tailored to the specific needs of the UAE Armed Forces?
Our approach at EDGE ensures that innovation is both functional and mission-ready. We work closely with the UAE Armed Forces to deliver cutting-edge manned and unmanned platforms and systems that meet their operational requirements. This includes integrating AI and autonomous capabilities in products like the THeMIS UGV and REACH-S UAV.
By prioritising reliability, ease of use, and real-world performance, we ensure that our technological advancements translate into practical solutions that give the UAE Armed Forces an operational advantage on the ground.
How is EDGE supporting talent development within the UAE’s defence industry?
EDGE reinforces its commitment to talent development through initiatives like EDGE IGNITE, a 15-month programme designed for exceptional STEM graduates.
This programme offers full-time work, high-impact training, mentorship, and access to senior leaders, preparing participants for leadership roles with technical and behavioural skills.
In addition to EDGE IGNITE, we actively pursue global talent, hiring top-tier specialists in AI, robotics, space, and other key areas. This ensures the UAE stays at the forefront of defence innovation while fostering home-grown talent and attracting world-class expertise.●
