UAE signs agreements worth Dh970 million on opening day of drone exhibition in Abu Dhabi
The UAE’s Ministry of Defence signed deals worth more than Dh970 million ($264 million) yesterday, on the opening day of a major Abu Dhabi event displaying advances in drones and robotics.
The ministry signed a Dh874 million contract with Abu Dhabi-based International Golden Group to purchase drone systems and support services and training for five years, at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (Umex) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (Simtex).
It was one of three major deals made with Abu Dhabi companies at the global gathering, which runs until tomorrow at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Meanwhile, a Dh10 million agreement was struck with Resource Industries to procure anti-drone guns.
The ministry also signed a Dh16 millon partnership with satellite developer Yahsat, to provide communication bands.
The key investments were finalised by the Tawazun Council, the UAE defence and security acquisitions authority for the Ministry of Defence.
The exhibition was opened by Sheikh Saif bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.
Sheikh Saif underlined the UAE’s commitment to accelerating the growth of the national defence sector. He said the UAE was a global leader in the fields of defence and security, thanks to its continued investment.
Majed Al Jaberi, spokesman for the Tawazun Council, said two deals worth Dh72 million were also completed with international firms.
These were a Dh49 million contract with Canadian Aviation Electronics for training centre simulators and a Dh23 million deal with China’s CETC International for anti-drone systems.
More than 18,000 people and 200-plus exhibitors are expected to attend the sixth annual Umex and Simtex event. More than 30 countries from around the globe are taking part – with nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Singapore, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Estonia, the Virgin Islands and the Czech Republic there for the first time.
Humaid Al Dhaheri, managing director and chief executive of the Adnec Group, said the success of Umex and Simtex highlighted Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for new technologies and innovation.
“Umex and Simtex exhibitions provide a platform for companies and institutions to showcase the latest developments in the field of unmanned systems,” he said.