EARTH, a prominent entity within EDGE, is recognized globally for its engineering, systems integration, and procurement services catering to defense, national security, and public safety sectors, both domestically and internationally. Due to its expertise, EARTH has been selected by the UAE Air Force Air Defence as the system integrator responsible for equipping various airborne platforms with Thales radios and IFF solutions.
As part of this agreement, Thales will supply military-grade radios and advanced IFF transponders to EARTH, specifically for integration into UAVs. The IFF solution is a lightweight, miniature transponder designed to meet the unique needs of UAVs, helicopters, and transport platforms. It incorporates future-proof capabilities, including potential integration with GPS systems and detect-and-avoid features, enhancing mission-critical situational awareness.
This collaboration underscores Thales’s strategic objectives in the UAE, reinforcing its long-established position as a trusted partner in defense, aerospace, digital solutions, and cybersecurity. With a workforce of 1,700 employees in the region, including 550 in the UAE, Thales has been pivotal in developing sovereign solutions, investing in local talent, and forming industrial partnerships to align with the UAE's national vision.
Hazzaa Al Alabdouli, CEO of EARTH, emphasized the importance of the partnership: “EDGE Group’s strategic collaboration with Thales reflects our unwavering commitment to equipping the UAE’s armed forces with the world’s most reliable military communication technologies. By integrating Thales’ cutting-edge radios and IFF solutions into airborne platforms, we are enhancing mission-critical capabilities while reinforcing local expertise and innovation in our defense systems integration.”
Christophe Salomon, Executive Vice-President of Thales Secure Communications & Information Systems, added, “Our partnership with EARTH is a testament to our commitment to developing cutting-edge defense technologies and strengthening the UAE’s defense ecosystem. By localizing expertise and co-developing advanced solutions, Thales is helping build a more resilient and self-sufficient defense industry.”
Thales has been a key player in the UAE for over 50 years, providing innovative electronic systems for land, sea, air, and space platforms. Its portfolio includes radars, sensors, sonars, communication systems, and digital solutions, all contributing to the enhancement of the UAE’s defense capabilities.
This MoU is part of EDGE’s broader efforts to drive innovation in defense technologies, positioning the UAE as a leader in cutting-edge defense solutions while fostering the development of sovereign capabilities for global export.