Air and missile defence, AI and unmanned systems
EDGE has signed a wide-ranging Memorandum of Understanding with South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace, one of the country’s leading space, aviation and defence companies. On paper, it’s an MoU. In practice, it lays the groundwork for cooperation across some of the most sensitive and high-end areas in defence:
- Advanced air and missile defence
- Long-range precision strike
- Unmanned systems
- Defence-focused AI
The two companies will explore how Hanwha’s technology portfolio can be combined with EDGE’s growing industrial ecosystem in the UAE. That includes looking at integrated, multi-layered defence architectures tailored to the UAE’s future needs, as well as options for localised sustainment, production and training—up to and including dedicated MRO capacity in the country.
On AI, the plan is to see how real-world operational data can be paired with Hanwha’s AI modelling expertise to shape future capabilities, while also testing ideas in unmanned ground systems, shipbuilding and maritime MRO.
“Real potential to deliver lasting value”
Khaled Al Zaabi, President – Platforms & Systems at EDGE, framed the deal as more than a standard cooperation agreement:
“This understanding reflects a shared ambition to advance the next generation of defence capabilities. Hanwha’s strengths across key domains, combined with our growing industrial base, create momentum for systems that strengthen national resilience and expand the UAE’s role as a leader in advanced technology. We see real potential to shape programmes that deliver lasting value for both nations.”
From Hanwha’s side, the focus is on building a serious, long-term channel with the UAE:
“Through this MoU, Hanwha aims to open a pathway for meaningful dialogue and collaboration with EDGE in areas that are important to both countries,” said Sung Il, President of Hanwha Middle East and Africa. “We look forward to evaluating opportunities that could contribute to the UAE’s defense resilience and create long-term industrial value.”
The agreement comes on the heels of a recent summit between the leaders of South Korea and the UAE, where both governments made a point of reaffirming their commitment to closer defence and industrial ties.
EPI and Strata: titanium parts and “Make It in the Emirates”
Airbus A330 work extended to 2030
On the manufacturing side, EDGE Group entity EPI has extended its contract with Strata, Mubadala’s advanced manufacturing company, to produce complex titanium parts for Strata’s Airbus A330 programme.
The deal, signed by Michael Deshaies, CEO of EPI, and Sara Al Memari, Acting CEO of Strata, on the sidelines of the airshow, runs until the end of 2030. It covers all manufacturing and treatment activities for complex titanium spare parts supporting Strata’s Aileron Single Source Assembly Line for the A330.
This is very much in line with the UAE’s “Make It in the Emirates” push—building real local capability, not just assembling or repackaging.
Reinforcing the UAE in the global supply chain
For Deshaies, the extension is proof that local industry can reliably deliver to global standards:
“The extension of our long-standing partnership with Strata underscores the trust placed in EPI to deliver precision-engineered titanium parts that meet the highest global aerospace standards. Together, we are reinforcing the UAE’s position as a reliable contributor to the international aerospace supply chain, while advancing sovereign manufacturing capabilities that support EDGE’s and the nation’s overall long-term vision.”
Al Memari highlighted what the deal says about the UAE’s industrial maturity:
“This contract extension with EPI reflects the depth of our longstanding partnership, and the UAE’s unwavering commitment to advancing its aerospace manufacturing capabilities. At Strata, we take great pride in contributing world-class components showcasing the innovation, expertise, and excellence that define our nation’s industrial ambitions.”
She added that, together with EPI, Strata is “elevating the UAE’s aerospace footprint on the global stage and demonstrating the true potential of Emirati talent and industry leadership.”
Anti-drone systems with the Brazilian Navy
From letter of intent to capability package
EDGE is also cementing its position as a technology partner in Latin America. Building on a letter of intent signed in April, EDGE and the Brazilian Navy have moved into the next phase of a jointly developed anti-drone system for deployment at strategic sites.
A joint working group of technical experts from both sides has been formed. A demonstration is scheduled for December, with the first capability package planned for delivery in 2026. This is framed as the first stage of a broader effort that could eventually expand towards the development of anti-missile shields.
The agreement was signed at Dubai Airshow 2025 by Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, and Vice-Admiral Carlos Henrique de Lima Zampieri, Director of Naval Weapons Systems for the Brazilian Navy. For both parties, the focus is on improving operational effectiveness and counter-drone capabilities, while building a scalable foundation for future systems.
EPI and Etihad Engineering: building MRO strength at home
Machining and wheel hub MRO in the UAE
Closer to home, EPI has announced a collaboration with Etihad Engineering, one of the world’s leading aircraft MRO providers based in Abu Dhabi. The focus is on aircraft component machining and MRO activities for aircraft wheel hubs—the kind of specialised work that directly lifts local capability and reduces dependency on overseas facilities.
The collaboration, which kicked off in early 2025, has already helped EPI:
- Raise its technical expertise
- Improve manufacturing readiness
- Align with international aviation standards
All of this is being done in close cooperation with Etihad Engineering’s experienced engineering and maintenance teams.
“A sustainable, advanced manufacturing and MRO ecosystem”
Deshaies sees this as central to the UAE’s wider industrial strategy:
“This milestone underscores both EPI and Etihad Engineering’s shared commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision to build a sustainable, advanced manufacturing and MRO ecosystem, driving In-Country Value (ICV) and contributing to the nation’s industrial growth and aerospace self-sufficiency.”
From Etihad Engineering’s side, the collaboration is another way of backing the UAE’s ambition to be a global aerospace hub.
“As one of the world’s leading aviation MRO solutions providers based in Abu Dhabi, we at Etihad Engineering are fully committed to the UAE’s vision to be a global aerospace hub,” said Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering. “As a part of that commitment, we are pleased to collaborate with leading industry players like EPI to advance the nation’s aerospace capabilities and deliver comprehensive MRO solutions to customers from all over the world.”