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13 Feb 19. Helicopter issues hamper Jordanian air force. According to the Royal Jordanian Air Force’s (RJAF) Brig Gen Pilot, Adham Belal Asendar, the service’s helicopters do not currently have weapons integrated with surveillance and reconnaissance systems, which has created difficulties.
‘The RJAF’s helicopter force is not equipped with offensive ISR suites which is causing some headaches,’ the commander told Shephard.
He explained that instead their helicopters were focused ‘on supporting border operations, counter insurgency and smuggling while being integrated with ground forces’.
‘They are needed to ensure a stable border, provide a quick response to any attack within Jordan, and train with land forces for support and fires,’ he outlined.
The RJAF uses three main rotary-winged assets for such sorties: UH-60A/L/M Black Hawks, AH-1F Cobras equipped with L3 Wescam MX-15 EO/IR turrets and MD530F Little Birds.
Asendar continued: ‘We rely on our intelligence specialists and ground force ISR joint terminal air controllers [JTACs] for target coordination so the helicopters can find and fix the targets. We carry out intelligence ops with rotary assets but focus on battlefield surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting. We believe that it is important to operate as a whole-force, due to the limitations we have faced over the years.’
Asendar, who is assistant to the Chief for Operations and Training continued: ‘We operate in a highly challenging hybrid threat environment that is far different from the operational scenarios, like large scale nation to nation conflict that many of us were trained in.’
This is one of many challenges that faces the RJAF, as Asendar outlined to Shephard: ‘This new environment sees us our forces working with cross agencies in counter-terrorist ops, in built up areas where civilians are in close proximity to the targets. Another issue to consider is cyber, where the enemy will jamming our military systems which is a real problem.
‘We do have forward looking infra-red [FLIR] turrets in the UH-60L, but we rely on our Cessna 208 Caravan and the Schiebel S100 Camcopter and six CASC CH-4B UAVs for the airborne ISR ops.’
The RJAF initially operated 12 S100s but that has been reduced to ten – one was brought down by jamming and the other had an accident, according to Asendar.
He also told Shephard that the CH-4Bs have not been as successful as the RJAF hoped, due to maintenance and other issues which he would not discuss, and are being retired.
The helicopters are limited to what they can see while operating at night, have relatively short duration and speed limitations that reduces the time over targets thus hindering the ISR mission.
‘Our helicopters mainly operate in low risk environment out of the way of MANPADs and small air arms that are out there. We fully understand the environment we are working in and have developed procedures for joint ops – we are working with our colleagues to create plans.
‘We are trying to adapt our tasks, assets and aircraft to work together better as an integrated force. We have learnt from the past few years to operate all the helicopters under one command, and train and equip our forces to be fully joint.
‘So the advances we are developing include a unified helicopter command, as well as ISR and targeting capabilities for our attack helicopters [which will include the Cobra being upgraded with MX-15DI camera and designator] while in the future we aim to develop the UH-60M as a common operation multirole platform and have a rotary command and control platform that can work with troops on the ground. This could lead to the sale of the existing UH-60Ls.’
Asendar also told Shephard that the four L3Technologies AT-802 Border Patrol Aircraft (BPA) delivered in 2016 are now no longer required, and are being put up for sale.
Instead they are hoping to seal a deal with IOMAX, when the budget becomes available, to upgrade the six ex-UAEAF&AD AT802i BPAs that were delivered in 2013, to armed Archangel status.
A question mark also hangs over the future of its armed CN235Ms, converted by the Prince Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau in co-ordination with ATK Orbital. The options, according to the brigadier general, are to withdraw them from use or continue with an upgrade.
‘The Grob 120TPs which replaced the Fireflies, are among the best aircraft we have acquired to replace the Bulldogs. The Grob is a good aircraft for the pilots to transition to PC-21 which is marvellous, it’s a good start.’ (Source: Shephard)
14 Feb 19. Sudan adapts to Western allies over Yemen. Trying to get Sudan’s Su-24Ms to work with the rest of the Saudi-led coalition during the Yemen War has led to the Sudanese Air Force putting a Western transponder in the fighter-bomber. The Sudan Air Force Commander, Lt Gen Pilot (PSC) Salah Eldin Abdelkhaliq Saeed told Shephard: ‘We have four Su-24Ms based at Khamis Mushayt in Saudi and after the fix we can work and communicate with all the foreign aircraft, even the AWACS during the allied effort.’ Sudan has been supporting the Saudi-led coalition against the Houthis since the allied war effort commenced in March 2015. As well as deployed Su-24Ms, Sudan has also sent troops.
Saeed continued: ‘Our Su-24Ms are operating in the reconnaissance role and are flying up to ten hours every day to monitor one particular sector [he wouldn’t say which one]. The imagery is being downlinked using our own data link system used by all the SAF’s aircraft.’
To smooth out the rules of engagement and interoperability issues, the Sudan and Saudi Arabia air forces participated in the ‘Blue Shield’ joint exercise in April 2017.
The manoeuvres took place at Meroe Air Base, around 150 miles north of Sudan’s capital, Khartoum. It involved 450 Sudan Air Force personnel as well as MiG-29 Fulcrums, Su-24 Fencers, Su-25 Frogfoots and Mi-17 Hip helicopters and 250 Saudis working alongside Typhoons and F-15s.
‘We learned a lot,’ said Saeed. ‘We changed our rules of engagements, and renewed all our doctrine to cope with today’s modern threats. We were also trained on the close air support role and taught tactics to avert collateral damage, that led to the acquisition of precision guided munitions. In the reconnaissance role our personnel were taught how to analyse the targets and become part of the kill-chain.’
On acquisitions, he confirmed that the Sudan Air Force was now operating Chinese CH-3s.
‘We really have no option because of the sanctions that we are battling with. The Chinese are not perfect but they have tried to help us.’ Last year also saw six FTC-2000s delivered for both tactical operations and training.
‘We are also looking to acquire the Sukhoi Su-30/-35 but it all depends upon the budget. We would of course like to work with the west but we can’t because of restrictions.’
Sudan’s SAFAT Aviation Complex, a relatively new name in the aerospace industry, produces both the SAFAT 02 helicopter and the SAFAT-03 trainer.
At Dubai Air Show 2017, the commander flew the latter in the flying display and not too surprisingly is a fan of the aircraft.
‘We have delivered around three to the Sudan Air Force Academy, which will eventually phase out the Nanchang PT-6s.’
On the SAFAT 02, the commander said none had yet been delivered, but the SAF is hoping to acquire 15 to replace the Mi-2 Hoplite currently used for basic helicopter training. (Source: Shephard)
13 Feb 19. Naval Group at IDEX 2019 and NAVDEX 2019. From 17th to 21th February 2019, Naval Group participates to IDEX 2019 and NAVDEX 2019 in Abu Dhabi. Naval Group will showcase the state-of-art innovations created for modern navies, demonstrating its capabilities in modern military ship and submarine building along with high tech solutions for systems and competence as leading naval integrator.
Come and meet us at booth 07-B15 on IDEX and B-019 on NAVDEX
Contributing to naval and industrial autonomy in the Middle East
Naval Group’s has been present in the Middle East for decades and has built trustful partnerships with many navies in the region.
Naval Group has a commitment to its customers to provide high performance naval military capacities and to stand by them on the long term. It supports its partners in developing national security through transfer of technology for the production and maintenance of their defence systems and contributes to their self-reliance and sovereignty.
Naval Group presents its leading technologies at IDEX and NAVDEX
Naval Group is a naval systems provider and integrator, one of the few companies in the world with the ability to deliver complete warships with their combat systems and all the critical equipment necessary to engage naval power in a theatre of operations. It is involved at every stage in the product life cycle, from design to in-service support.
The stands on IDEX and NAVDEX will reflect this comprehensive offer with a focus on surface ships and innovative solutions.
Gowind®: a sea-proven international success
Gowind® is Naval Group’s response to 21st century defence and security challenges. The platform combines high survivability characteristics with outstanding anti-air (AAW), anti-surface (ASW) and anti-submarine (ASuW) warfare performances thanks to the MU90 and to the CANTO®-V.
The MU90 is the sole totally new lightweight torpedo in the world. Designed and built with the most advanced technology, it is capable to counter any type of nuclear or conventional submarine even acoustically coated, deep diving, fast evasive, deploying anti-torpedo effectors
or bottomed in littoral areas. The CANTO®-V represents a breakthrough in the field of anti-torpedo defence. Based on dilution/confusion concept, it is the only solution capable of protecting surface vessels against both the most advanced and the previous generation torpedoes.
The Gowind® is operated with the SETIS®. This state-of-the-art combat is combat-proven on the French Navy’s FREMM frigates and interoperable with NATO systems. It provides the operator with the best management and decision-making aids, ensuring the Gowind® supremacy over conventional and asymmetric threats.
Nine of the ten Gowind® vessels contracted are being built with foreign partners in Malaysia and Egypt. The first Gowind® built in Egypt was launched on September 6, 2018.
BELHARRA®: the digital multi-mission combatant
Belharra® is the answer from Naval Group to navies looking for a compact frigate to perform a large range of missions, stand-alone or within a task force, for high sea duration missions or for shallow water operation in congested and contested operational environment.
Belharra® benefits from Naval Group centuries of experience ensuring unmatched stealth and outstanding detection capabilities. It features a robust platform, resilient systems and recoverability features that will enable it to retain operational capability following damage.
This new frigate features high level capabilities in anti-air, anti-surface, anti-submarine, and asymmetric warfare domains as well as the access to deep strike capability.
Its original design features consider the fast pace of change of information technology and the ongoing need for technical upgrades. It is also the first frigate to include architecture and systems to counter next-generation threats, such as cyber and asymmetrical warfare.
In April 2017, the French Defence Ministry awarded a contract to Naval Group for the construction of five Belharra® frigates for the French Navy. The first of class of this powerful multi-mission surface combatant is to be delivered in 2023.
SMX® 31: “the electric”
SMX® 31 is a showcase of developments Naval Group is studying for the next generation submarine. This resolutely digital submarine, designed to operate in a highly demanding environment, will carry out information gathering missions and will be more than ever capable of forceful actions that will result, either by using adapted weapons, or by “special” action modes (disruptive action modes adapted to different situations).
SMX® 31 is fitted with significantly increased energy power which allows remaining submerged, stealth and manoeuvring during very extended periods. The whole combat system and platform management system is fully integrated. It’s taken benefit of the latest developments in terms of Artificial Intelligence (AI). With a perfect hydrodynamic shape (inspired by biomimicry), specially designed for stealth versus active acoustic means, SMX® 31 is totally undetectable.
Training and simulation innovative solutions
Naval Group’s offer in Training and Simulation is part of its sovereignty enabling activities and services, drawn from unrivalled experience acquired together with the French Navy, and its Naval Group international customers and partners. Embracing operation, maintenance and industrial simulation and training, this offer is composed of progressive and customised programs, during every stage of ship’s life cycle, from a basic familiarisation and overview to on board training.
Naval Group’s “Ship inside concept” aims to train through an innovative and immersive 3D scenario, adapted to each pedagogical process and the necessary attractiveness for the new generations.
12 Feb 19. IDEX 2019 – One of the largest and most important global defence trade shows will open its gates in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, this forthcoming Sunday. It will be a show-of-possibilities that will mainly be aimed at the Arab, Asian and Australian markets. In addition to the two trade shows that alternate each year – DSEI in London and Eurosatory in Paris – for the European market and AUSA in Washington for the American market, IDEX is the biennial meeting place where companies can present their solutions to the markets of Asia and Oceania. Almost more important than the Arab market, which consists of only a few countries, is IDEX’s impact on Asia and Oceania. It is purely a trade show, and only government representatives, the military and industry are allowed in. This year around 1,200 exhibitors will be taking part, and over 200,000 visitors are expected. IDEX 2017 was attended by 172 official international delegations from 142 countries, including defence ministers, armament directors and inspectors-general. These figures show that it is a global industry exhibition and not a regional Arab event. From a geographical point of view alone, Abu Dhabi can be regarded as a mediator between Europe and Asia. The largest guest nation for years has been the USA.
The Honourable Christopher Pyne, Minister for Defence, Australia, stated: “The International Defence Conference adds a new dimension to the disruptive innovations in the fields of defence and security. Australia looks forward to working with new partners in the area of defence systems due to the significant importance we attach to developing defence applications and sharing our knowledge with friendly countries.”
His Excellency Mohammed Al Bowari, Minister of State for Defence Affairs, UAE, stressed: “The conference provides a unique opportunity to further the development of defence capabilities. We will discuss the latest advancements in technology with a special focus on disruptive technology and their impact on our armed forces.”
Accordingly, the opening of IDEX 2017 was marked by the presence of the most prominent players in the defence sector. The exhibi-tion was opened by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (photo), Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Similar celebrities are also expected to attend this year’s opening ceremony.
As a precursor to IDEX the International Defence Conference (IDC) 2019, will be held from February 14-16 at Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi. Over 1,200 global defence specialists are expected to this event and for the first time, IDC will be combined with the Abu Dhabi International Offset Conference (ADIOC). With this the organizers aim to create a comprehensive global forum covering all defence and security issues as well as the relevant innovations of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) with this year’s theme “Shaping Our Shared Future: Strengthening Our Security and Prosperity through Innovation.”
His Excellency Tareq Abdul Raheem Al Hosani, CEO of the Tawazun Economic Council, explained that the events were merged due to the common resolve of both towards developing a robust defence technological and industrial base that will serve and drive economic development in the UAE: “The conference will tackle highly interesting and relevant topics addressing current developments in the defence, security and offset sectors, and how these sectors are impacted by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly in terms of strategy to deal with 4IR, innovation, manufacturing and training.”
The conference’s agenda will feature interactive discussions on four key focus areas: offset, security and stability, knowledge economy, and innovation and artificial intelligence. The event will also seek to strengthen the leading status of the UAE as a global hub for such specialised conferences. (Source: ESD Spotlight)
11 Feb 19. Royal Bahraini Air Force battles on all fronts. The Royal Bahraini Air Force (RBAF) has ‘some serious issues to address right now’, the service’s commander, Maj Gen Hamad bin Abdullah al Khalifah, told Shephard. ‘We are still engaged with the Saudi Arabia-led Arab coalition in Yemen, where our F-16s provide close air support along Saudi Arabia’s southern border with Yemen. We have flown more than 10,000 hours and in excess of 3,500 sorties in that role over the past three and a half years,’ the commander explained.
Along with its allied partners, Bahrain is also combating terrorism, and this is all being played out in the face of budget pressures and ageing equipment.
‘But we will still modernise our systems and maintain high readiness to face the challenges of our more aggressive neighbour [Iran] which continues to threat and destabilise the region.’
On the threat from Iran, he argued that: ‘They have been threatening for a long time not only as a country but through militias who are followers or believers of Iran. The GCC is doing much better to counter that threat and we are pleased the international coalition now understands.’
It is not surprising, therefore, that the shadow of Iran is playing a major role in shaping the RBAF, which, along with its Gulf state allies, recognises the importance of defending air, sea and land with the help of its western allies.
‘In order to strengthen the role of the future GCC air power, we must continue to integrate in all aspects of operations, leadership, doctrine, training, personnel facilities and materials,’ the commander continued.
‘And we need to modernise because the security challenges we face today cannot be addressed with yesterday’s capabilities.’
In a major step to upgrade the RBAF’s combat air capabilities, the commander announced a $912m deal for 12 AH-1Z Vipers at the Bahrain International Air Show in mid-November.
Al Khalifa told Shephard ‘that the world’s most advanced attack helicopter will continue to secure the country’.
‘Deliveries will start in the second half of 2022 and completed in early 2023, they will significantly improve our share in the growth and security of the Gulf region,’ he explained.
‘They will work alongside the current Cobra fleet and help to improve our share of the responsibility in the growth and security of the Gulf region.’
The existing fleet of AH-1s is currently made up of 18 AH-1Fs and around six TAH-1P Cobra trainers. The commander noted that the AH-1Z has been marinised to protect the systems and fuselage from salty sea conditions.
‘We decided to add the AH-1Zs to the fleet so we could have an additional maritime capability, which the others do not.’
Turkish Aerospace is upgrading the existing 18 AH-1Fs as part of a $25m deal agreed in June 2015, with an avionics upgrade based on systems already operational on Turkey’s T129 advanced attack and reconnaissance (ATAK) helicopter.
The commander confirmed he was upgrading the older Cobras ‘to give them a better night fighting capability,’ adding ‘we are half way through the process and that by the end of 2019, all would be modified’.
Integration of the ASELFLIR 400 turret into the attack helicopter’s nose is one major improvement as well as an enhanced weapons delivery set-up and an NVG compatible cockpit.
The commander was not too keen to discuss the upgrade because of the deterioration in the relationship between its ally Saudi Arabia, which is likely to be paying for the work, and Turkey after the deal was done. He would only tell Shephard that the deal covered a ‘good number’ of helicopters.
In a further procurement, in July 2018 the Bahraini government signed a $2.8bn FMS deal with its US counterpart for 16 new Block 70 F-16C/Ds and their support. The major general, who has been the air force commander for more than a decade, is looking forward to their arrival in 2022.
‘These new F-16s will add to our current capability and will be integrated with the assets of other allied air forces.’
Lockheed Martin had aspirations to upgrade the kingdom’s existing 20 F-16C/Ds to a similar standard as the new Block 70s, known as the F-16V. However, the RBAF baulked at the $1.1bn price.
‘Our priorities lie with the 16 new Block 70s. Our current fleet has been modernised to a very high standard and are extremely capable, until the Block 70s arrive. What happens after that we don’t yet know.’
The funds which might have been earmarked for the upgrade appear to have been spent on acquiring attack helicopters.
With all these new acquisitions, the chief acknowledge that he needs more pilots.
‘The selection process is now underway, and we have a good number now being trained. We started preparing for the arrival of new F-16s two years ago, and on the Cobras we started a few months ago with the selection of pilots and technicians.’ (Source: Shephard)
11 Feb 19. US defence companies retain top export status in Middle East. The Middle East and North Africa is home to seven out of the top ten nations in the world when it comes to defence spending as a percentage of GDP. US defence companies are the top exporters to the region, however, Russian and French companies are also making inroads. (Source: Shephard)
10 Feb 19. BAE Systems latest technology of land sea and air defence products. BAE Systems at IDEX 2019, the International Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi (UAE) is a 451.5 square metre, with two storey stand. IDEX is the only international defence exhibition and conference in the MENA region, enabling the demonstration of the latest technology across the land, sea and air sectors of defence.
IDEX takes place biennially at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, located in the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. It is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The edition 2019 of IDEX will take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the 17 to 21 February 2019. Army Recognition Group Company with its online Defense and Security magazine will provide the Official News Online of IDEX 2019 including Web TV. Follow all activities of IDEX 2019, with our latest news, coverage, reports and videos.
BAE Systyems stand at IDEX 2019 will have two full size combat vehicles including the M109A6+ and a Bradley Fighting Vehicle. These exhibits will be complemented by a range of products and capabilities from our Land, Maritime and Electronic Systems businesses. (Source: Google/https://www.armyrecognition.com)
10 Feb 19. Lockheed Martin will showcase latest defense products and solutions. Lockheed Martin, the American-based global technology leader, is set to showcase its latest advanced defense technology solutions at the 14th edition of the International Defense Exhibition and Conference IDEX that will be held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates from 17 to 21 February 2019.
At IDEX, U.S. Company Lockheed Martin will highlight a diverse portfolio of defense capabilities, products and services at the event, including its integrated air and missile defense technology, tactical aircraft, rotary systems, unmanned vehicles, and beyond.
“At Lockheed Martin, we recognize that next-generation technological innovations shape the future of global security and progress,” said Robert S. Harward, Chief Executive for Lockheed Martin in the Middle East. “As such, our core focus is to create and develop advanced defense capabilities, which will support all our regional partners in ensuring the safety of their citizens and stability of their nations against evolving threats in this modern age. IDEX provides the perfect stage for us to engage with both our regional and international customers, and to exhibit the most advanced solutions that will help us navigate today’s complex security landscape.”
“We are very proud to share a long history of over 50 years of close collaboration with our partners here in the Middle East, and we remain committed to strengthening this relationship for decades to come,” Harward added.
Lockheed Martin’s team of global business experts will be present at Stand 01-A11 inside the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), where the company will be displaying its world-class innovations during IDEX 2019. (Source: armyrecognition.com)
18 Dec 18. ADNEC Signs Strategic Partnership Agreements to Support IDEX and NAVDEX 2019. Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) today signed strategic agreements with a number of specialised national defense companies to support the upcoming editions of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX).
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 will run at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 17 to 21 February, 2019.
The agreements were signed in the presence of His Excellency Staff Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX; His Excellency Major-General Staff Pilot Ishaq Al Balushi, Vice Chairman of the Organising Committee; Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC; Omar Al Faresi, Chief Financial Officer of Emirates Defence Industries Company (EDIC); Mohamed Hawas Al Sadid, Chief Executive Officer of the SEHA Ambulatory Healthcare Services; and Saeed Al Mansouri, Director of IDEX and NAVDEX 2019.
The agreement endorsed EDIC as the strategic partner for IDEX and NAVDEX 2019, Tawazun Holding as the principle partner for IDEX 2019, Abu Dhabi Shipping Building as the principle partner for NAVDEX 2019 and SEHA Ambulatory Healthcare Services as the official healthcare services provider for IDEX and NAVDEX 2019.
His Excellency Staff Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX, said: “We are proud of the support that IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 have received from leading national defence companies from both the public and private sectors, demonstrating the importance of both events in advancing the country’s defence industries”.
Al Mazrouei added: “The remarkable progress achieved by our national defense companies would not have been possible without the unwavering support extended by our wise leadership led by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates and Crown Princes.
His Excellency Major-General Staff Pilot Ishaq Al Balushi, Vice Chairman of the Organizing Committee, said: “As IDEX will mark its 25 anniversary, this upcoming edition will draw a record participation from specialised local and international defense companies. This will further reinforce the event’s prominent status on regional and international defence map.”
Al Balushi added: “The Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX is working around the clock in preparation for the largest edition in the event’s history. The committee comprises under its umbrella several national institutions from both public and private sectors that have come together to ensure the success of both events in a manner befitting the stature and reputation of the UAE “.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “We are delighted with the tremendous support IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 have received from our partners as the upcoming edition is set to become the largest since IDEX was launched in1993. At ADNEC, we are implementing an ambitious strategy to support specialised exhibitions and conferences that serve key economic sectors identified by Abu Dhabi Economic Vision and Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, including the defense industry. ”
Al Dhaheri added: “ADNEC teams have been utilising their full potentials to ensure the success of IDEX and NAVDEX 2019. We thank our partners from both public and private sectors for their continued support for IDEX and NAVDEX, which will enhance the events’ competitiveness and ability to attract top exhibitors and decision makers from major defense companies worldwide.”
Tareq Abdul Raheem Al Hosani, Chairman of Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC) and Chief Executive Officer of Tawazun Economic Council, said: “The rapid growth achieved by our national defense industry is a manifestation of the huge potentials held by the UAE in various sectors. Our partnership with IDEX 2019 presents a perfect model of strategic collaboration between two important sectors, the exhibition and defense, to showcase the UAE’s unique competencies and capabilities in this vital sector.”
Omar Al Faresi, Chief Financil Officer of Emirates Defence Industries Company (EDIC), said: “Our strategic partnership with IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 is built on the solid foundation of close relationship and collaboration between defense and exhibition sectors. IDEX and NAVDEX serve as a leading platform for showcasing the latest developments and innovation in defense sector thanks to the continued support extended by the country’s wise leadership to this vital industry to embrace the latest technologies.”
Mattar Al Shamsi, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Ship Building Company, said: “The maritime defense industry has witnessed a paradigm shift in the UAE through possessing advanced technologies and building superior indigenous capabilities. At Abu Dhabi Ship Building Company, we consider NAVDEX 2019 a unique opportunity to highlight the considerable growth achieved by the maritime industry in the UAE.”
Mohamed Hawas Al Sadid, Chief Executive Officer of the SEHA Ambulatory Healthcare Services, said: “Our partnership with IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 highlights the importance of synergy between national organisations to advance the country’s vitally important economic sectors including healthcare. At SEHA, we are proud to be the official healthcare provider of this definitive global defense event and to deliver the highest quality of healthcare services.”
The previous edition of IDEX and NAVDEX drew the participation of over 1,235 local and international exhibitors as well as more than 105,000 visitors from across the region and world. The event also facilitated defense deals value at AED19.1bn.
IDEX and NAVDEX 2017 convened top dignitaries, decision-makers, defense ministers, military commanders, representatives of diplomatic missions, and military and civilian delegations from brotherly and friendly countries.
07 Jan 19. Record International Participation at NAVDEX 2019. The next edition of NAVDEX 2019, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, will witness a record number of international and local participant companies specialised in the maritime defence industry. Held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) concurrently with the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) from 17-21 February, the number of participating military units for NAVDEX is expected to increase by 66 per cent to 20 units from 15 countries. Displays will range from frigates, supply vessels and transport vessels to naval minehunters and naval patrol boats.
The 2019 edition will also see the participation of four countries for the first time including China, Saudi Arabia, Thailand and South Korea.
A transportation shuttle will link events held in the free port area, where large ships will dock, and the exhibition site and marine channel. This edition will also open the ships for visitors wanting to climb aboard the ships to learn about their capabilities.
NAVDEX, the most important maritime defence exhibition in the Middle East, is expected to showcase the most advanced maritime defence systems in addition to displaying marine defence units and equipment. More than 100 companies will be on site to present their most sophisticated products to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the exhibition for deals and partnerships between international companies.
His Excellency Staff Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Higher Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX 2019, said: “The significance of NAVDEX as an international exhibition specialised in maritime defense is steadily increasing. The maritime defence sector is witnessing rapid development in terms of modern innovations and advanced technologies that compels professionals and personnel in this strategic sector to stay informed of the latest developments and technologies in maritime systems and equipment. NAVDEX offers that opportunity”.
His Excellency added: “We look forward to this larger version of NAVDEX with wider international and local participation that reflect the extent of developments by the UAE defence industries, now one of the leaders of this field in the region thanks to the support and directions of the UAE wise leadership”.
- Event held concurrently with the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX)
- Participating naval units increases 66% and the area allocated for shows increases 20%
- More than 100 exhibitors from 23 countries
For his part, Hamid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), said: “As part of ADNEC’s strategy to promote the status and future of all exhibitions and the conferences organised and held by the company at its various centres, ADNEC has worked on placing appropriate emphasis on the development of NAVDEX by expanding and developing the infrastructure of Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre marine channel to increase the space allocated for presentations by 20 per cent to reach approximately 40,000 square metres. This allows us to provide an ideal platform for participating companies to display their products and meet their needs, both in the exhibition halls and through ADNEC marine channel.
Al Dhaheri added: “The unprecedented interest shown by specialised global defense firms to participate in the upcoming editions of NAVDEX is the outcome of our comprehensive strategy which involved intensive marketing efforts to promote the exhibition at major international events. This has helped us attract several international companies that will mark their debut participation or expand presence in the forthcoming edition.”
Al Dhaheri also noted that NAVDEX is a real platform to showcase the latest products in the maritime defense sector due to its great global interest and the participation of various delegations and dignitaries, such as leaders of armies, decision-makers and those interested in maritime affairs in most countries of the world. This is reflected positively by the participation of our exhibitors, and adds value to this vital sector.
NAVDEX 2019 is sponsored by a group of national companies specialised in the defence industry, most notably the Emirates Defense Industries Company (EDIC), the strategic partner of the IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 exhibitions, in addition to the Abu Dhabi Ship Building Company (ADSB), the main partner of NAVDEX 2019.
Held on over 133,000 sqm. of internal and external area, the 2019 edition of NAVDEX and IDEX are expected to be the largest in their history as IDEX is set to mark its silver jubilee. It is worth noting that the previous edition saw the participation of more than 1,235 participating companies from 57 countries and produced concluding deals valued at more than AED19.7bn.
15 Jan 19. International Defence Conference 2019 to Convene 1,200 Defence Specialists. The International Defence Conference (IDC) 2019, being held 14 to 16 February at Emirates Palace Abu Dhabi, is expected to draw the participation of over 1,200 global defence specialists. For the first time, IDC will be combined with the Abu Dhabi International Offset Conference (ADIOC) with the aim of creating a comprehensive global forum covering all defence and security issues as well as the relevant innovations of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) with this year’s theme — ‘Shaping Our Shared Future: Strengthening Our Security and Prosperity through Innovation’.
His Excellency Tareq Abdul Raheem Al Hosani, CEO of the Tawazun Economic Council, explained that the events were merged due to the common resolve of both towards developing a robust defence technological and industrial base that will serve and drive economic development in the UAE.
His Excellency Tareq Abdul Raheem Al Hosani, CEO of the Tawazun Economic Council, said: “The conference will tackle highly interesting and relevant topics addressing current developments in the defence, security and offset sectors, and how these sectors are impacted by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, particularly in terms of strategy to deal with 4IR, innovation, manufacturing and training.”
His Excellency added that the Tawazun Economic Council is looking forward to seeing benefit from the conference outcomes in drawing-up strategies to contribute to comprehensive development drive, enable defence and security industries, promote constructive partnerships, facilitate technology transfer and to build capabilities.
The conference’s agenda will feature interactive discussions on four key focus areas: offset, security and stability, knowledge economy, and innovation and artificial intelligence. The event will also seek to strengthen the leading status of the UAE as a global hub for such specialised conferences.
His Excellency Staff Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX 2019, said: “The arrival of 4IR and its advanced technologies, especially in the field of artificial intelligence, requires devising innovative strategies to utilise its high-tech capabilities in an optimal manner to ensure global stability, security and peace. Every advance in science and technology brings with it a wealth of opportunities and challenges that need addressing – and that is the objective of IDC 2019.”
Added His Excellency: “We attribute the significant growth of IDC, IDEX and NAVDEX, and their ability to keep pace with the latest developments in the defence industry to the guidance of our wise leadership, whose strategic vision continues to inspire our current and future generations.”
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), the event organiser, said: “The new format of IDC demonstrates the breadth of our strategic collaboration with our partners in the defence industry. Through merging IDC with ADIOC into one event, we seek to create an integrated platform that combines economic, defence and security disciplines with innovation to enable us to reap the full benefits of 4IR. The merger will enhance the global significance of this conference while fulfilling the urgent need to provide a holistic international perspective.”
This year’s event will also serve as a precursor to the 2019 edition of IDEX/NAVDEX being held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 17 to 21 February. Occurring biennially, IDEX/NAVDEX are held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
Added Al Dhaheri: “The 2017 edition of IDEX/NAVDEX drew 105,000 attendees as well as 1,235 exhibitors from the defence industry. The strong participation of influential personalities and decision-makers from the defence sector underlines the status of the UAE in general, and Abu Dhabi in particular, as a leading global destination for hosting such high-calibre events.”
Al Dhaheri also noted that the conference agenda will include a tour of Abu Dhabi’s major tourism sites and cultural landmarks for the participating delegates, aimed at promoting the rich culture and history of the emirate.
27 Nov 18. IDEX 2019 secures 95 per cent booking as global platform puts spotlight on AI & Fourth Industrial Revolution. Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) has announced that bookings for both indoor and outdoor spaces for the upcoming editions of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2019 and the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2019 have already reached 95 per cent, revealing the shows’ global importance and advanced preparations of the world’s leading players in the security and defence industries to take part in its silver jubilee edition. Under the patronage of His Highness (H.H.) Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the events will run from 17th to 21stFebruary 2019 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Organised by (ADNEC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and UAE Armed Forces, the two exhibitions will showcase the latest defence developments featuring technology trends from the Fourth Industrial Revolution and artificial intelligence and the vital role of these technologies in advancing the defence sector and its relevant industries. Themed ‘Defence for Security and Safety’, the event will also highlight the UAE’s leading initiatives in achieving digital transformation in line with the country’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy aimed at enhancing government’s performance and contributing to achieving the goals of UAE Centennial 2071 to become the best country in the world in all fields
IDEX will celebrate its silver jubilee in the upcoming edition, having completed 25 years since its inception in 1993. The global platform for the defence sector is set to attract the world’s leading defence and security companies which will display their latest innovations, as well as feature international experts. Participants will also witness the latest developments within the local and regional defence industries.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC has confirmed that the coming edition of IDEX and NAVDEX 2019 is set to prove once again its leading position as a global platform to showcase the latest leading developments in security and defence, in line with the global technological trends such as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Al Dhaheri added that the event consolidates its global reputation as one of the most prominent specialized exhibitions for defence industries and contributes in reflecting the continues efforts of the UAE’s wise leadership in advancing the present and future of the country’s defence sector position it on the world’s global map.
Al Dhaheri further emphasized that IDEX and NAVDEX remain proactive in boosting their capabilities as effective platforms that support national companies in marketing and exploring expansion opportunities for their products and services, in line with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 aimed at economic diversification, sustainable growth and supporting the non-oil sectors.
“We look forward to witness wide participation of leading manufacturers, defence systems companies, government officials, decision-makers, defence and security leaders and global specialists, as well as major international companies in the coming edition of the exhibition,” Al Dhaheri added.
Held on the side-lines of IDEX, NAVDEX 2019 is set to bring together industry leaders from around the world, to discuss and share innovative ideas and concepts in the field of naval defence and security. The exhibition will contribute in further consolidating UAE’s position as a key maritime player in the region and a leading hub for shipbuilding, maintenance, repair and restoration of warships. It provides a strategic platform to showcase the latest innovations by local and regional maritime companies and organizations in naval security and coastal protection.
IDEX & NAVDEX 2017 welcomed more than 105,000 visitors and witnessed the participation of more than 1,200 local, regional and international companies. The events also paved way for the signing of strategic deals with a combined value of AED 19.17bn.
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