EDGE Group entity KATIM, a regional leader in ultra-secure communications and cryptographic technology, has signed a strategic alliance with Space42, the UAE’s leading AI-powered SpaceTech company, to establish a sovereign manufacturing ecosystem for advanced SATCOM hardware. The agreement was formalised at the Dubai Airshow 2025, marking a major step in strengthening the UAE’s national space, defence, and communications capabilities.
UAE to Build Comprehensive SATCOM Manufacturing Ecosystem
Under the alliance, KATIM’s government-grade secure communications systems will be integrated with Space42’s satellite communications infrastructure to develop fully sovereign SATCOM hardware and antenna systems. The partnership aims to support defence, government, and commercial users by delivering secure, locally built satellite communications solutions.
The collaboration also ensures that critical SATCOM technologies—traditionally sourced internationally—are now retained and manufactured within the UAE, supporting the country’s strategic goals of technological independence and industrial self-reliance.
Strategic Commitment to UAE’s Space and Cyber Capabilities
Waleid Al Mesmari, President – Space & Cyber Technologies at EDGE, said the alliance reflects EDGE’s commitment to strengthening the UAE’s sovereign defence and space infrastructure:
“EDGE is committed to advancing the UAE’s technological independence through strategic partnerships that deliver sovereign capabilities. This alliance with Space42 combines our expertise in ultra-secure communications, cryptography, and advanced waveforms with Space42’s satellite infrastructure and manufacturing prowess. Together, we are establishing a comprehensive SATCOM ecosystem that positions the UAE as a global leader in secure satellite communications.”
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, highlighted the strategic significance of the collaboration:
“This alliance is a major milestone in developing the UAE’s sovereign space and communications infrastructure. Space42’s satellite operations experience and manufacturing expertise—proven through our Foresight constellation programme—enable us to deliver world-class SATCOM antenna systems. Paired with EDGE’s leadership in secure communications, we are creating an integrated national capability for both strategic and commercial needs.”
Strengthening the UAE’s Position as a Global SATCOM Hub
The EDGE–Space42 SATCOM alliance builds on the UAE’s national efforts to expand domestic manufacturing across defence, communications, and space technology sectors. By consolidating secure communications, cryptography, satellite engineering, and antenna manufacturing under one national framework, the partnership is expected to accelerate the UAE’s emergence as a global centre for secure satellite communications.
