UAE signs Dh5.2bn defence deals

ABU DHABI // The UAE has signed contracts worth Dh5.2 billion to buy defence equipment and logistics, it was announced yesterday at Idex, the International Defence Exhibition in Abu Dhabi.

The deals include the Dh722 million purchase of US-built Predator drones, which will not be outfitted for weapons capabilities, but used for reconnaissance. The biggest single contract was for 750 mine-resistant, ambush-protected all-terrain vehicles worth Dh1.4bn, also built in the United States.

UAE companies' technology expertise took centre stage on Idex's second day yesterday, with ADCOM Systems of Abu Dhabi displaying its range of unmanned aircraft, including the new United 40 drone, already contracted to the Armed Forces. "We have potential contracts with seven other countries, from the Gulf as well as Europe," said chief executive Ali Al Dhaheri.

At Navdex, the naval and maritime security section of Idex, Abu Dhabi Ship Building launched its new Baynunah-class corvette, made specifically for the UAE Navy.

newsdesk@thenational.ae