Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, on Tuesday visited the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (Idex) in Abu Dhabi.
“We are very proud that our national companies for military and defence industries are participating in the exhibition with their latest systems,” he wrote on X. “Edge launched more than 46 new systems during the exhibition. The company has more than 14,000 employees. Its operations are spread across 91 countries around the world. Its annual sales exceed $5 billion. It is ranked among the 25 largest military companies in the world.”
His tour included a visit to the Turkish pavilion, where he was briefed on the defence and security products and innovations offered by Turkish companies, including Otokar, which displayed five vehicles from its armoured collection.
Sheikh Mohammed also noted the progress made within the UAE’s defence industries, adding that the sector contributes to localising knowledge and supports the national economy, state news agency Wam reported.
“We will continue to enhance the UAE’s role as a major hub for innovation, development, and building partnerships in various strategic sectors and we will continue to work closely with our partners around the world to find solutions that enhance security, spread the foundations of peace, and expand opportunities for sustainable development,” he added.
It came as the UAE Armed Forces awarded three contracts worth Dh5.57 billion to local firms, while international groups landed two deals valued at Dh213 million, Tawazun Council officials said on Tuesday.
Military vehicles at Idex – in pictures
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The Magnus has a sleek muscular look, bulletproof Kevlar shell and 800km range thanks to an electric battery and on board diesel generator. Pictures: Chris Whiteoak / The National -
The Eneron Magnus border patrol vehicle has been built from scratch in the UAE. -
The speciality vehicles have been developed in partnership with the UAE National Guard. -
The interior of the Magnus, a concept car which is the latest project from government-owned Kintsugi Holding. -
The UAE awarded 13 military contracts worth $1.09 billion on the first day of IDEX. -
More than 150,000 visitors are expected to attend the global defence industry's week-long showcase. -
A CS/VP16B light unmanned all-terrain vehicle at IDEX 2025 at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi. -
A Themis Combat a ground autonomous system on show at the defence exhibition. -
The R150 by Electro Optic Systems at IDEX. -
The R400 by Electro Optic Systems was also on show. -
A Havoc 8x8 RCV at the conference in the UAE captial.
