Raytheon, the US manufacturer of defence systems, has set up a wholly owned subsidiary headquartered in Abu Dhabi to serve the UAE’s defence and aerospace requirements, the company said on Thursday.
“The establishment of Raytheon Emirates is a strong step forward in our longstanding alliance with the United Arab Emirates,” said Thomas Kennedy, the chairman and chief executive of Raytheon. “Through partnerships with government, industry and academia, Raytheon is committed to helping the UAE achieve its economic goals while providing trusted, innovative solutions that support the nation’s defence and security requirements.”
Raytheon Emirates, which will seek to contribute to UAE economic diversification efforts by employing skilled Emiratis and using locally based suppliers, is incorporated in Abu Dhabi’s financial free zone, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), with plans underway to establish operational branches in other parts of Abu Dhabi.
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The new subsidiary will oversee Raytheon’s operations in the UAE by expanding services and resources in the fields of cybersecurity, effectors, air defense and sustainment, and advanced technology, Raytheon said in a statement.
John Brauneis, in addition to being the vice-president of supply chain management for Raytheon Missile Systems, has been appointed the chief executive of Raytheon Emirates.
“We are focused on expanding the capabilities of Raytheon and its business partners in the UAE by emphasising local hiring and talent development, cultivating a strong supplier base, and developing new technology solutions,” Mr Brauneis said.
At last month’s Dubai Air Show, the UAE’s military said it had agreed to buy laser guided bombs from Raytheon in a deal worth Dh2.5 billion.