South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace and the UAE’s EDGE Group have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the Dubai Airshow 2025, aimed at expanding bilateral defense and industrial cooperation. The agreement follows the recent Korea–UAE summit, underscoring both nations’ commitment to advancing joint defense capabilities and co-development programs.
Strategic Collaboration on Air Defense, AI, and Unmanned Systems
At the heart of the MoU is a joint plan to explore an integrated, multi-layered air defense system for the UAE, combining Hanwha’s advanced technologies with EDGE’s growing industrial ecosystem. Both sides will also consider collaboration in long-range precision strike systems, defense artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, maritime capabilities, and other next-generation technologies.
The MoU further outlines a review of localized sustainment structures, including potential MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) capacity, local production concepts, and training initiatives to enhance the UAE’s defense autonomy.
Focus on Localization, MRO Expansion, and Defense AI
Hanwha and EDGE will evaluate opportunities to integrate real-world operational data with AI-driven defense technologies, merging Hanwha’s deep AI modeling experience with EDGE’s operational insights. Collaborative discussions will also include unmanned ground systems (UGVs), shipbuilding technologies, and maritime MRO programs, supporting vessel maintenance and lifecycle sustainment.
Hanwha Middle East & Africa President Sung Il said the MoU “opens a pathway for meaningful dialogue and collaboration,” emphasizing its role in strengthening the UAE’s defense resilience and industrial capacity. EDGE Managing Director & CEO Hamad Al Marar highlighted the shared ambition to develop next-generation defense systems that expand the UAE’s technological leadership and long-term value creation.
Expanding Korea–UAE Defense Industrial Partnership
Hanwha brings robust capabilities across aerospace, land systems, naval platforms, energetics, advanced manufacturing, and space technologies—positioning it as a key partner for future modernization programs. The company is also exploring partnerships with the UAE in energy, shipbuilding, and finance, reflecting a broader multi-sector vision.
EDGE, launched in 2019, has rapidly become one of the world’s most innovative defense and advanced technology groups. With a strong focus on autonomous systems, cyber-physical technologies, propulsion, robotics, smart materials, and sovereign manufacturing, EDGE continues to push the UAE toward becoming a global hub for advanced defense and future industries.
