UAE-based EDGE Group has signed an agreement with TKMS AG & Company (TKMS), one of the world’s leading naval companies, to evaluate opportunities towards establishing an integrated multi-system approach for underwater security and to thereby strengthen their maritime defence capabilities.
The MoU, inked following the state visit of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Germany, is a part of an initiative agreed by the German government and the UAE for a closer co-operation in the area of defence and security and aims to explore the joint development of underwater surveillance and protection capabilities.
The agreement was signed in Munich by Miguel Ángel López Borrego, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of TKMS, and Omar Al Zaabi, President – Commercial at EDGE.
Under the deal, TKMS and EDGE intend to evaluate opportunities towards establishing an integrated multi-system approach for underwater security and to thereby strengthen the maritime defense capabilities of both partners.
Oliver Burkhard, Chief Executive Officer of TKMS, said: "We welcome the initiative of the German government and the UAE to strengthen cooperation in the defence and security areas. TKMS’s long-standing partnership with the UAE represents a solid foundation for our joint commitment."
"This co-operation will strengthen underwater surveillance and defence capabilities in the long term – an important contribution given the current security situation. TKMS is committed to continuing its long-standing engagement in the UAE and contributing to the further development of the national security architecture," he added.
Hamad Al Marar Managing Director and CEO, EDGE, said: "The security of the maritime domain is fundamental to the UAE's national and economic resilience, and the demands placed on it are growing. EDGE is working to build the sovereign capability to meet them, working with partners such as TKMS whose expertise strengthens what we deliver."
The MoU comes amidst heightened geopolitical security challenges that have increased the demand for naval capabilities for maintaining maritime security and ensuring the uninterrupted flow of commercial shipping.
"Integration of multiple platforms and sensor systems could provide the basis for establishing a comprehensive situational picture, providing a solution for the variety and complexity of maritime threats," stated Al Marar.
"In this context the parties intend to explore how TKMS platform capabilities, complemented by EDGE systems competences, could contribute to enabling a suitable and effective surveillance and protection solution," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
