In a significant move to enhance the UAE’s defense and manufacturing capabilities, Tawazun Council and Thales have inked a strategic agreement to establish a cutting-edge production facility for Ground Master air surveillance radars. As part of the Tawazun Economic Program, Thales Emarat Technologies is investing in this state-of-the-art factory, which is set to be fully operational by 2027. This collaboration underscores the commitment to fostering local production and strengthening technological sovereignty in the region.
UAE and Thales to Launch Advanced Radar Factory by 2027
The UAE is taking a significant step toward reinforcing its defence and manufacturing capabilities. In a landmark move under the Tawazun Economic Program, Thales Emarat Technologies and Tawazun Council have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a cutting-edge production facility for Ground Master series air surveillance radars within the UAE.
This new facility, set to be fully operational by 2027, aims to advance the nation’s self-reliance in critical technologies and support its broader vision of a robust, future-ready industrial defence ecosystem.
A Partnership Rooted in Innovation
An Agreement Sealed at “Make it in the Emirates 2025”
The announcement was made during the fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2025, a key event promoting domestic industrial development. The signing ceremony was attended by high-profile representatives from both parties, including Matar Ali Al Romaithi, Sector Chief of Defence and Security Industry Affairs at Tawazun Council, and Abdelhafid Mordi, CEO of Thales in the UAE.
Their joint declaration marks a pivotal moment in the collaboration between government and global industry leaders, showcasing a shared commitment to technological excellence and national sovereignty.
Strengthening UAE’s Strategic Capabilities
This agreement isn’t just about building radars—it’s about building the future. By establishing local production of the highly regarded Ground Master series, the UAE is reinforcing its ability to control and secure its airspace using homegrown resources.
For you, as a citizen or stakeholder in the region, this means greater security, economic growth, and increased opportunities for national industries to thrive and compete internationally.
A Technological Milestone
Why the Ground Master Series Matters
Thales’ Ground Master radars are renowned globally for their cutting-edge performance. Known for their high reliability, adaptability, and mobility, these systems are designed for both peacetime and battlefield operations.
These radars can detect a wide range of aerial threats and support missions across diverse environments. With local production, the UAE ensures access to best-in-class surveillance systems tailored to its unique strategic needs.
Boosting Local Manufacturing
A Homegrown Hub for Advanced Radar Systems
The new production facility will assemble, test, and qualify air surveillance radars within the UAE. This isn’t just a logistical decision—it’s a strategic one.
By localizing these advanced technologies, the nation is reducing dependency on foreign imports and creating a manufacturing hub that can respond swiftly to evolving defence requirements. This facility will not only meet domestic demands but also serve export markets, adding a new dimension to the UAE’s industrial footprint.
Empowering Emirati Talent
Training a Future-Ready Workforce
A major focus of this initiative is human capital. Thales is committed to developing Emirati talent through comprehensive training programs and sustainable career development opportunities.
You may know someone—or be someone—who will benefit from this drive. The goal is to nurture a skilled local workforce capable of mastering advanced radar technologies, thereby aligning with the UAE’s broader national defence strategy.
Enabling Long-Term Self-Reliance
From Production to National Supply Chains
The project goes far beyond the walls of the factory. A key objective is to qualify and integrate domestic suppliers into the radar production process.
This fosters long-term sustainability and resilience by strengthening the national industrial base. It also empowers smaller UAE-based companies to innovate and grow by becoming integral parts of a globally respected supply chain.
Voices from Leadership
Statements That Reflect Strategic Purpose
Matar Ali Al Romaithi, Sector Chief of Defence and Security Industry Affairs at Tawazun Council, emphasized the broader impact of the agreement:
“The expansion of Thales’ Radar Centre of Excellence reflects the strength of the UAE’s defence industrial strategy and its regional leadership in advanced technologies. This initiative enhances national capabilities in air surveillance radar systems while creating significant opportunities for local companies to grow, innovate, and compete globally.”
Similarly, Hervé Dammann, Executive Vice-President for Land and Air Systems at Thales, expressed confidence in the long-term vision:
“Thales is proud to contribute to the growth of the UAE’s industrial defence ecosystem by advancing local capabilities. This investment reinforces the UAE’s sovereignty in critical defence technologies, strengthens the national supply chain, embarks UAE talents and deepens local expertise in advanced radar systems.”
Conclusion: A Bold Vision Takes Shape
This collaboration between Tawazun Council and Thales is more than a business agreement—it’s a strategic step toward a future defined by innovation, security, and self-sufficiency.
As the new radar facility progresses toward its 2027 operational date, you can expect to see not just the physical infrastructure taking shape, but also the growth of a knowledge-based economy driven by Emirati talent and expertise.
In an increasingly complex world, initiatives like this ensure that the UAE is not only prepared for tomorrow’s challenges—but is helping to define what the future of defence and technology looks like.
