EDGE, a global leader in advanced technology and defence, and Fincantieri, a world-renowned shipbuilding group, have signed an enhanced Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen their collaboration in underwater defence technologies. This agreement builds on the November 2024 partnership established in Paris and reinforces their joint venture, MAESTRAL, based in Abu Dhabi.
Key Objectives of the MoU
The extended cooperation focuses on:
- Unmanned systems for protecting critical underwater infrastructure and seabed mapping
- Next-generation submarines and drone-carrier ships
- Lightweight torpedoes for modern naval warfare
Strategic Importance of the Agreement
- Growing Maritime Defence Needs: Increasing geopolitical tensions and new security threats demand advanced underwater solutions.
- Regional Leadership: The UAE aims to become a pioneer in underwater technology innovation, strengthening sovereign defence capabilities.
- Global Market Growth: The underwater defence sector is expected to reach $400 billion by 2030, driven by rising defence investments worldwide.
Leadership Perspectives
Hamad Al Marar, CEO of EDGE Group:
“Through MAESTRAL, EDGE and Fincantieri are advancing world-class underwater capabilities that will play a pivotal role in the future of subsea security and maritime defence. This partnership marks a significant step in positioning the UAE at the forefront of this strategically important domain, strengthening its role as a regional pioneer with globally competitive expertise. As underwater technologies become increasingly vital to national security, we are committed to driving innovation, enhancing sovereign capabilities, and setting new industry standards in this high-potential sector.”
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri:
“Since 1909 Fincantieri has a long-standing history in submarine construction, and has already established itself as a pioneer in the underwater sector, leveraging decades of systems integration expertise and cutting-edge innovation with a ‘dual’ focus either in the military and in the civilian space. The underwater domain is projected to reach $400bn by 2030 as defence public needs for countries globally are rapidly evolving. Through MAESTRAL, we are pleased to support the UAE’s ambitious naval strategy and alongside a trusted partner like EDGE, we will seek to deliver ground-breaking underwater solutions to meet future needs for its national capabilities.”
This collaboration positions EDGE and Fincantieri as global leaders in underwater technology, ensuring future-proof solutions for evolving security challenges.
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Source: FINCANTIERI
