Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
EDGE, a world-leading advanced technology conglomerate based in Abu Dhabi, is committed to bolstering national security capabilities in the UAE through investing in cutting-edge defence research and technologies, said Waleid Al Mesmari, the Senior Vice President of Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster at EDGE.
In an interview with Aletihad on the sidelines of the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi 2024), the SVP highlighted the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of national security.
Spanning various defence capabilities, AI revolutionises training through realistic simulations, optimises logistics with predictive maintenance, enhances cybersecurity by rapidly detecting and responding to threats, improves the accuracy and decision-making of smart weapons and advances the development of autonomous systems across air, land, and sea, according to Al Mesmari.
“AI has proven to be a disruptive force and it is my belief that only the most innovative and forward-thinking defence companies - who understand its full potential - are taking active measures to comprehensively integrate the technology into their operations.
“That is why we at EDGE, are leveraging AI and investing significantly in the technology, both in-house and with our international partners, to enhance our product line-up and boost efficiency, accuracy, and responsiveness. By integrating AI, we aim to stay at the forefront of defence innovation and national security, while also meeting the evolving demands of our rapidly-evolving client needs,” Al Mesmari said.
He noted that Edge is heavily investing in several AI applications, cybersecurity solutions, electronic warfare products and secure communications advancements with the potential to address national security and critical infrastructure challenges.
“Our acquisition of ORYXLABS in 2023 has added award-winning cybersecurity solutions to our portfolio, offering effective monitoring of organisations’ IT landscapes and identification of potential vulnerabilities in digital infrastructure and networks. Additionally, EDGE entity KATIM continues to reinforce our leadership in secure communications, providing ultra-secure smartphones and post-quantum network encryptors to ensure the constant security of sensitive data.
“In electronic warfare, the complex electromagnetic environment is crucial for modern operations. EDGE entity SIGN4L, provides actionable intelligence, advanced protection, and a networked approach to multi-domain communications, supporting a unified force in joint operations,” added Al Mesmari.
He further noted that EDGE is integrating advanced Industry 4.0 technologies across all its operations to enhance manufacturing efficiency and is upskilling its workforce accordingly.
“As a UAE Industry 4.0 Champion, we are pioneering over 40 indigenous advanced technologies with a robust product development roadmap, boosting in-country value through superior products for global export. We are also expanding our Learning and Innovation Factory’s services to upskill national talent, supporting digital transformation and business excellence”.
Cutting-edge Innovations at ISNR
2024 marks EDGE’s third appearance at ISNR, where it features a comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions aligned with the event’s key themes: national and civil security, cyber defence, arms and ammunition, secure communications, and electronic warfare, according to Al Mesmari.
“The [ISNR] exhibition set in Abu Dhabi and supported by key stakeholders in the national advanced defence and security sectors, provided a platform for us to showcase the significant progress we have made in achieving broader national objectives closely aligned with those of the UAE government. Through EDGE, we continue to bolster our national security capabilities and invest locally in cutting-edge defence research, development, innovation, and technology adoption,” he said.
In the field of Electronic Warfare, EDGE showcased its SKYSHIELD and ACTIVECELL-SAR.
For Secure Communications the company exhibited its KATIM line of infrastructure security and ultra-secure endpoint solutions. Its Cyber Technology products portfolio on display included the DNS FIREWALL, DISCOVERY and BEACON RED’s suite of trainings & services. With regard to arms and ammunition, EDGE’s ARACAL showcased the CAR 816, CSA 338 and small to medium calibre ammunition.
