UAE generates interest at London defence and security exhibition

LONDON // The UAE attracted international interest in its first appearance at the world’s largest defence and security exhibition, in London.

In one of the largest pavilions at the Defence, Security and Equipment International 2013, 15 defence companies including Tawazun, Mubadala, Sofia Trading and Nation Shield brought in hundreds of potential customers.

“The number of visits to the stand from international delegations, senior UK military officials and companies has been really high,” said Alan Malpas, of the UK Trade and Investment’s Defence and Security Organisation.

More than 30 international delegations and hundreds of people visited the UAE stand, Mr Malpas said.

He said UAE officials had held meetings with small and medium-sized UK enterprises that are developing technology and equipment.

“The meetings offer small and medium enterprises in the UK the chance to work together with companies like Tawazun, which want to diversify the economy in the UAE and to help sustain the technological base of those SMEs,” Mr Malpas said.

At the event two new pistols that were designed, engineered and made in the UAE were presented for the first time.

“As a small-arms brand headquartered in the UAE, we are looking forward to the opportunity that DSEI 2013 offers to bring our two new pistols to a truly international marketplace,” said Sultan Aouda, chief executive of Caracal International.

The new pistols, the CP663 and CP664, are double-action hammer pistols designed for use by Special Forces and for sports.

The hold 18-round and 15-round magazines respectively.