European missile maker MBDA and the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement are launching several projects to boost the country’s domestic defense technology production.
The agreement covers a framework for the creation of a wholly-owned subsidiary, called MBDA UAE, to strengthen the defense firm’s local presence in the Middle Eastern country.
Next, MBDA will collaborate with French start-up Fly-R to domestically develop and produce a loitering munition powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Finally, a new thermal battery manufacturing facility will be established at Tawazun Industrial Park to support missile system supply chains.
“This long-term collaboration allows us to continue supporting our common ambition of being an integral part of the growth of UAE defence industry in the best way possible,” said MBDA CEO Eric Béranger.
Strategic Initiatives
MBDA’s upcoming UAE subsidiary marks a significant step in its partnership with Tawazun since 2000. The office will focus on research and development, local production, and technical support.
Meanwhile, the loitering munition — to feature a diamond-shaped design for high-speed and maneuverability — will integrate advanced AI to enhance overall battlefield effectiveness.
The upcoming Emirati Thermal Batteries plant will serve as a new industrial branch of the global ASB Group, and give the UAE domestic production capacity for a strategic missile component traditionally sourced internationally.
Thermal batteries are critical for powering missile guidance and control systems, making local production a major advantage for supply chain security.
Tawazun Council’s Director General of the Industrial Development Directorate Matar Ali Al Romaithi said that the initiatives reinforce “the UAE’s role as a regional hub for advanced defence industries.”
