Thales To Manufacture Radar Antennas In UAE For Global Markets

French defence and technology conglomerate Thales has announced plans to commence production of radar antennas in the United Arab Emirates within this year. This strategic initiative aims to cater to both domestic requirements and international export demands, marking a significant expansion of Thales' footprint in the Middle East.

Pascale Sourisse, President and Chief Executive Officer of Thales International, detailed the company's commitment to establishing a radar manufacturing facility in the UAE. This facility is poised to serve as a hub for meeting the nation's defence needs while also supplying advanced radar systems to global markets. The move underscores Thales' strategy to localise production and foster technological collaboration within the region.

In alignment with this expansion, Thales Emarat Technologies, a subsidiary of the Thales Group operating within the UAE, is set to double its workforce from 170 to 340 employees. Notably, the company has committed to ensuring that 30% of these new positions are filled by Emirati nationals, reflecting a dedication to nurturing local talent and contributing to the UAE's economic diversification efforts.

The decision to bolster operations in the UAE comes on the heels of the International Defence Exhibition 2025, held in Abu Dhabi. During the event, the UAE Armed Forces secured 13 contracts totaling approximately Dh4 billion with various local and international companies. This flurry of agreements highlights the nation's ongoing investment in enhancing its defence capabilities and the strategic importance of partnerships with global defence entities like Thales.

Thales' initiative is not an isolated development in the UAE's burgeoning defence sector. The country has been actively pursuing collaborations to augment its technological prowess. For instance, EDGE, a prominent UAE-based defence conglomerate, recently announced a strategic partnership with Indra, a Spanish technology firm, to establish a joint venture focused on radar production. This venture aims to enhance local radar manufacturing capacities, introduce cutting-edge radar technologies to the UAE, and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise.

The UAE's radar market is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. Market analyses project a significant expansion between 2025 and 2031, driven by increased defence spending and the nation's strategic vision to become a regional hub for advanced technology and manufacturing. Thales' investment in local production is anticipated to play a pivotal role in this growth trajectory, offering advanced radar solutions tailored to the specific needs of the UAE and its allies.

Thales' commitment to the region extends beyond the UAE. The company has been actively involved in supporting the modernisation and indigenisation efforts of armed forces across the Middle East. In line with India's 'Make in India' initiative, Thales showcased its advanced defence and aerospace innovations at Aero India 2025, reinforcing its dedication to collaborating with regional partners and contributing to local defence industries.

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