EDGE Group And Fincantieri Sign MoU To Develop Advanced Underwater Solutions For Global Navies

EDGE, a prominent advanced technology and defence group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fincantieri, a major shipbuilding company. This agreement aims to foster strategic collaboration in the underwater domain. The MoU focuses on designing and developing advanced manned and unmanned underwater systems in the UAE through their joint venture, MAESTRAL.

The partnership marks EDGE's initial foray into underwater technologies. It allows both entities to share expertise and utilise technical resources to create innovative products. This collaboration will enhance the UAE's capabilities in defence technologies, benefiting navies globally.

The MoU was signed by Hamad Al Marar, CEO of EDGE Group, and Dr. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri Group. The signing took place at EURONAVAL, a leading naval defence exhibition in Paris. Khaled Al Zaabi from EDGE and Dario Deste from Fincantieri were also present.

Dr. Pierroberto Folgiero stated: "This agreement between Fincantieri and EDGE underscores a commitment to pioneering advancements in underwater technologies, combining engineering excellence with a forward-thinking approach." He highlighted the challenges of fluid dynamics, communication, and autonomy in this domain.

Hamad Al Marar commented on EDGE's growth over five years across various domains like air, land, sea, cyber, and space. He emphasised that collaboration is key to developing necessary technologies for leadership in these areas. The partnership with Fincantieri exemplifies this strategy.

The MAESTRAL Joint Venture focuses on sales and engineering for surface and underwater vessels. It also provides employment opportunities for skilled local and international talent. This initiative aims to develop solutions tailored to unique naval needs worldwide.

Commitment to Innovation and Safety

Folgiero added that the collaboration aims to set new benchmarks in safety and resilience for underwater operations. Their efforts contribute significantly to national capabilities and global maritime security while addressing critical needs within defence and energy sectors.

This agreement opens new channels for strategic collaboration between EDGE and Fincantieri. It boosts the development of sophisticated solutions tailored to navies' unique underwater needs worldwide.

The partnership leverages extensive technical resources from both organisations. It advances UAE’s sovereign capabilities in defence technologies for the benefit of UAE and other navies globally.

With inputs from WAM