► EDGE and Republic of Korea’s DAPA advance major defence cooperation

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Abu Dhabi, UAE: 27 February 2026 – EDGE Group has signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), during the Republic of Korea’s recent high-level visit to Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral defence partnership between both countries.

The agreement was signed by H.E. Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President for Strategic Research and Advanced Technology Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of EDGE, and Mr. Lee, Yong Cheol, Minister of DAPA, in the presence of other senior officials from the UAE and Republic of Korea. The visit underscored the enduring strength of the ‘Special Strategic Partnership’ between the two nations.

The MoU establishes a framework for comprehensive defence industry cooperation, encompassing design, development, training, and maintenance, moving beyond a traditional procurement relationship toward deeper, long-term collaboration. Areas of cooperation include integrated air defence systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power, with defence cooperation under the framework expected to amount to approximately $35 billion.

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Classification
Region
West Asia, East Asia & Pacific
Analytical Domain
Strategic
Primary Category / Secondary Categories
Political-Military / Weapons & Equipment
SALUTE Report
Size
Not specified
Activity
Signing of a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework
Location
Abu Dhabi · UAE · Republic of Korea
Unit
EDGE Group and Republic of Korea’s DAPA
Time
27 February 2026
Equipment
integrated air defence systemsadvanced aircraft capabilitiesmaritime power
Summary

EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s DAPA in Abu Dhabi on 27 February 2026. This agreement marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation, valued at approximately $35 billion, focusing on integrated air defense systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power. The signing took place during a high-level visit from South Korea, highlighting the strong bilateral defense partnership.

Key Facts
  • EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with DAPA.
  • The agreement was signed during a high-level visit from South Korea to Abu Dhabi.
  • The cooperation framework is valued at approximately $35 billion.
  • Areas of cooperation include air defense systems, aircraft capabilities, and maritime power.
  • The signing was attended by senior officials from both nations.