Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
International companies Lockheed Martin, Naval Group and Raytheon showcased their commitment to enhancing the UAE's defence capabilities through localisation and innovation at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) currently being held in Abu Dhabi.
Speaking to Aletihad, John Nicholson, Chief Executive for Lockheed Martin in the Middle East, highlighted the company's commitment to supporting the UAE's defence sector, marking 50 years of partnership.
Nicholson said: "We are proud of our long-standing work with Emirati partners, including the C-130 programme, and our local initiatives like the Center for Innovation and Security Solutions (CISS), where we have trained local talent and graduated 56 interns this year, many of whom have joined Lockheed Martin."
Hala Majeed, Manager of Lockheed Martin CISS, emphasised the centre's focus on localising defence capabilities. "Our interns have developed projects that enhance pilot training, contributing to the UAE's defence readiness. Since 2017, our programme has trained students in AI, robotics, and simulation, fostering the growth of local expertise in defence technologies," Majeed told Aletihad.
Omar Al Hosani, Modeling and Simulation intern at Lockheed Martin CISS, said: "At CISS, we work on projects directly supporting the UAE's defence sector, including fighter jet simulations, all developed locally by Emirati students."
Ali Al Mheiri, a systems engineer at Naval Group, shared his experience of being employed through the Tawazun's "SEEDS Programme", focusing on localising defence capabilities.
He said: "I had the opportunity to work on impactful projects, including the UAE's National Combat Management System (NCMS), which is designed to be nationalised and regularly updated with the expertise of Emirati engineers."
Al Mheiri said the NCMS includes a multifunctional console, offering scalability for the Navy. "It allows us to add sensors, weapons, and systems as needed, enabling the Navy to continuously update and tailor their requirements," he added.
Fahad Al Mheiri, Managing Director at Raytheon, shared how crucial it is to localise defence capabilities in the UAE, especially through their 12-year partnership with Pratt & Whitney.
This collaboration has recently resulted in the opening of a GTF MRO (Geared Turbofan Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility in the UAE, bringing thousands of local jobs to the region.
"Over 60% of the facility's workforce is local," Al Mheiri told Aletihad, stressing the commitment to building local expertise and supporting Emirati suppliers.
The GTF engine, found in planes like the A320, makes a big difference by cutting emissions, boosting fuel efficiency, and making operations at smaller airports safer and smoother.
"We are helping local suppliers build capabilities that meet global industry standards," he said.
The Coyote interceptor is another great example of the UAE's growing defence capabilities, designed to tackle drone threats, with local suppliers now playing a key role in its production.
Al Mheiri highlighted their ongoing involvement in strengthening the local defence sector, from their partnerships at IDEX to the creation of advanced systems like specialised radar, which enhances 360-degree coverage and visibility.
"We are building the UAE's defence capabilities from the ground up, expanding our presence and fostering organic growth within the local market," he added.
IDEX and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) runs until February 21 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
