Abu Dhabi-based EDGE Group and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have signed a memorandum of understanding to examine potential joint work in several advanced defense areas.
What Defense Areas Are Covered by the EDGE-Hanwha MOU?
The MOU outlines an intent to assess collaborative opportunities across a wide range of capabilities, including air and missile defense, long-range precision strike and next-generation unmanned systems, EDGE said Thursday. Discussions will also look at how both companies could align their respective technologies to support future operational needs in the United Arab Emirates.
As part of the agreement, the two firms will review options for local sustainment and training programs, including the possibility of establishing maintenance and support operations in the UAE to strengthen long-term readiness.
How Does AI and Autonomy Fit Into the Cooperation?
The agreement also opens the door to potential cooperation in defense-focused artificial intelligence. Both companies plan to evaluate how operational datasets and Hanwha’s modeling tools could inform next-generation AI applications. Unmanned ground systems, maritime technologies and ship sustainment concepts are also on the list of areas to be jointly assessed.
Khaled Al Zaabi, president of platforms and systems at EDGE, said the agreement reflects momentum behind the companies’ push to build next-generation defense capabilities. He noted that aligning Hanwha’s technology depth with EDGE’s industrial ecosystem could enable new programs that strengthen resilience and expand the UAE’s ability to field advanced technology.
The agreement follows a recent high-level meeting between UAE and South Korean leaders, during which both governments signaled their intention to deepen defense and industrial cooperation.