EDGE And Indra Establish Joint Venture PULSE To Innovate Radar Systems In Abu Dhabi

EDGE and Indra Sistemas, a prominent IT and defence systems firm, have partnered to form a new joint venture named PULSE. Based in Abu Dhabi, PULSE will focus on developing advanced radar systems. The collaboration aims to enhance local capabilities in design and manufacturing, supported by a strong order pipeline from existing and potential clients globally.

The agreement was formalised in Madrid by EDGE's Managing Director and CEO, Hamad Al Marar, and Indra's CEO, José Vicente de los Mozos. The signing ceremony was attended by Spain's Minister of Defence Margarita Robles Fernández, the Spanish Secretary of State for Defence Amparo Valcarce, EDGE Group's Chairman Faisal Al Bannai, Indra's Chairman Marc Murtra, and other officials from the Spanish Ministry of Defence.

Al Marar emphasised the significance of investing in advanced production facilities. "By investing in advanced production facilities, we are positioning the UAE as a global hub for radar innovation, shaping the future of defence technology across air, land, and maritime domains," he stated. This initiative aligns with their strategic vision to boost the UAE's industrial capacity in advanced technologies.

PULSE will focus on engineering, developing, manufacturing, integrating, and maintaining radar systems. It aims to market these systems in high-potential markets worldwide. The joint venture is expected to create two companies: one primarily owned by Indra focusing on development and sales; the other mainly owned by EDGE responsible for manufacturing radars in Abu Dhabi.

Faisal Al Bannai highlighted the joint venture's role in addressing critical capability gaps. "This joint venture between EDGE and Indra addresses critical capability gaps," he said. It showcases innovation and technology transfer to enhance operational excellence and global security. The partnership reflects a commitment to building meaningful collaborations that drive progress across key regions.

The new entity will initially employ experienced professionals from Indra alongside Emirati graduates and young professionals. This includes engineers, technical experts, and commercial profiles. The aim is to develop skilled local professionals through knowledge transfer and training programs.

Expanding Research Capabilities

The collaboration plans to improve local research capabilities significantly. This involves establishing advanced research infrastructures, laboratories, testing facilities, acquiring cutting-edge technologies, collaborating with leading experts, and implementing specialised training programmes for research teams.

Marc Murtra expressed optimism about the partnership with EDGE. "This agreement...will provide next-generation radar systems," he noted. It includes advanced research infrastructure based in the UAE. This step allows Indra to expand its global footprint while strengthening its relationship with EDGE.

Future Prospects for PULSE

PULSE will enjoy preferential rights over current and future orders awarded to either company based on specified technology agreements. New opportunities are anticipated in high-potential international markets aligning with Indra's Leading the Future Strategic Plan objectives.

The CEO of Indra elaborated on plans for a new factory in Abu Dhabi equipped with sophisticated technology to meet anticipated demand for innovative radar systems. "The new entity we are going to create with EDGE will help us accelerate the transformation of the defence business towards a more international profile," he explained.

This partnership marks an important step towards enhancing radar production capacity while fostering self-reliance through strategic investments aimed at shaping future defence technologies globally.

With inputs from WAM