Deals worth Dh18.328 billion ($5 billion) were signed at the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (Idex 2015), held in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

There were 33 contracts signed during the event, which also included the third Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (Navdex) as well as the first edition of the Unmanned Systems Exhibition (Umex).

One of the major contracts signed today was by the UAE Armed Forces for the purchase of two C-17 aircraft from The Boeing Company, to enhance its existing fleet. The value of the deal is Dh2.273 billion.

The 12th edition of Idex received an overwhelming and positive response from exhibitions, visitors and partners with almost 50 per cent of indoor and outdoor exhibition space sold out for 2017, said a statement.

Idex this year saw more than 100,000 visitors and 159 delegates participating in the event and the conferences. The number of exhibitors soared to 1,200 international and local companies participating companies from 56 countries.

Filling 133,000 sq m at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec), Idex, Navdex and Umex provided a platform to showcase emerging technology, equipment, trends and strategy.

Staff Major General Obaid Al Ketbi, chairman, Idex organising committee, said: “We have made significant progress with this edition of Idex, Navdex and Umex. Our promise with every edition is to bring the latest innovations and technologies in the defence space to the forefront for our stakeholders, partners and industry professionals."

Today’s other major deals Included:

• The UAE Armed Forces entered a deal with Abu Dhabi-based International Golden Group (IGG) to purchase various ammunition and defence solutions. The value of the deal is Dh67 million.

• The UAE Armed Forces will raise the capabilities and standards of naval vessels, through a deal with Etihad Ship Building, a local UAE company, to provide technical support. The value of the deal Dh19 million. - TradeArabia News Service