► EDGE and Hanwha strengthen strategic cooperation on integrated air defence

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Abu Dhabi, UAE: 16 September 2026 – EDGE Group and Hanwha have strengthened strategic cooperation on the development of an integrated air defence system. The two companies signed a Term Sheet at EDGE Group’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, with senior executives from both companies in attendance.


The Term Sheet outlines the direction of cooperation related to the UAE’s integrated air defence requirements, including the South Korean Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, additional Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (M-SAM) capabilities, and the Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MRLS).


The signing marks a step toward a long-term strategic partnership between the two companies, expanding cooperation beyond individual weapon systems to strengthen the UAE’s air defence capabilities and local defence industrial base.


Yang Ki-won, CEO of Hanwha Systems, said “We are pleased to take this important first step toward building a long-term strategic partnership with EDGE. By combining our technologies, capabilities and industrial strengths together, we aim to strengthen the UAE’s defence capabilities and identify new areas of cooperation.”


The two companies will continue discussions on the scope and structure of their cooperation. Subject to the necessary government approvals and applicable procedures, they will explore the potential establishment of a joint venture in the UAE, as well as detailed arrangements for local production and business operations.


They will also explore technology cooperation, phased localisation and local production to expand the UAE’s defence industrial base and develop a sustainable local defence industry.


Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, said “This cooperation goes beyond the acquisition of individual weapon systems, with a focus on strengthening the UAE’s sovereign air defence capabilities and local industrial base. EDGE will work with Hanwha to establish a sustainable framework for industrial cooperation.”



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Classification
Region
West Asia
Analytical Domain
Strategic
Primary Category / Secondary Categories
Political-Military / Weapons & Equipment
SALUTE Report
Size
Not specified
Activity
Strengthening strategic cooperation on integrated air defense system development
Location
Abu Dhabi · UAE
Unit
EDGE Group and Hanwha
Time
16 September 2026
Equipment
Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) systemMedium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (M-SAM)Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MRLS)
Summary

EDGE Group and Hanwha strengthened their strategic cooperation on developing an integrated air defense system in Abu Dhabi on 16 September 2026. The Term Sheet signed outlines collaboration on the L-SAM, M-SAM, and Chunmoo MRLS systems, aiming to enhance the UAE's defense capabilities. Both companies will explore establishing a joint venture and local production to support the UAE's defense industrial base.

Key Facts
  • EDGE Group and Hanwha signed a Term Sheet for air defense cooperation.
  • The cooperation includes L-SAM, M-SAM, and Chunmoo MRLS systems.
  • The partnership aims to strengthen the UAE's air defense capabilities.
  • Discussions on a potential joint venture and local production are ongoing.
  • The cooperation focuses on building a sustainable local defense industry.