Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement (Tawazun) and Saab UAE have signed an agreement for a Research and Development (R&D) program focused on advanced drone detection technologies.
The agreement was signed by Matar Ali Al Romaithi, Director-General of the Industry Development Directorate at the Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement, and Heléne Bittmann, Managing Director of Saab UAE, on the sidelines of the fourth day of the 2025 Dubai Airshow.
Strengthening UAE’s National Defense Capabilities
This project comes as part of Saab’s commitment to the Tawazun Economic Program, overseen by the Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement.
The program aims to strengthen national capabilities, empower the local defense ecosystem, and support the development of a sustainable and self-reliant defense and security industrial ecosystem, aligning with the country’s strategic objectives.
This joint drone detection R&D program will be carried out in the UAE, with the support of Tawazun, while Saab UAE leads the implementation efforts at the company’s Tawazun Industrial Park (TIP) facility. The initiative aligns with the need to address rapidly evolving drone threats, ensuring the UAE’s defense capabilities remain at the forefront of technological advancements.
Saab’s Commitment to the UAE’s Defense Future
Heléne Bittmann Managing Director Saab UAE
“Saab UAE has been committed to enhancing the UAE’s defense capabilities through cutting-edge technology and local expertise. This R&D program is a testament to our dedication to building national capabilities and fostering innovation within the UAE. By collaborating with Tawazun, we aim to develop advanced drone detection solutions that will significantly contribute to the nation’s security priorities.”
Matar Al Romaithi pointed out that the joint program with Saab UAE is poised to strengthen the UAE’s defense R&D efforts and build an advanced national defense industrial ecosystem. The program aims to develop innovative drone detection solutions, enhance national readiness, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a regional hub for advanced defense technologies.
He added that the collaboration with leading international companies supports knowledge transfer and empowers national talent to design and develop advanced defense solutions locally.
The expanded R&D program builds on Saab UAE’s established technical expertise and reinforces the company’s commitment to developing UAE-made products. It will focus on exploring advanced technology integration and strengthening local defense industrial capabilities.
