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ABU DHABI / WAM
Tawazun Council, Naval Group and Marakeb Technologies have signed a Joint Development Agreement for the development of the National Combat Management System (NCMS) through a complete and extensive transfer of technology and know-how.
The agreement comes as part of the ongoing efforts to enable the UAE’s defence and security industries, support the sector’s rapid growth and provide national defence solutions capable of meeting future needs.
The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi by Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, CEO of Operations at Tawazun Council, Lilian Brayle, Executive vice president of Combat Systems and Equipment at Naval Group, and Basel Shuhaiber, Chief Executive Officer, Marakeb Technologies, in the presence of a number of senior officials.
Under the agreement, Naval Group will work in cooperation with Marakeb Technologies LLC, a subsidiary of Strategic Development Fund Company (SDF), which was chosen as the joint development national partner for this programme.
Naval Group will develop the National Combat Management System capacity for the UAE Navy to enable the UAE Navy to operate a national CMS that will be integrated into their naval fleet, for both newbuild and retrofit ship programmes.
Muammar Abdulla Abushehab, the CEO of Tawazun, affirmed that the development of the National Combat Management System (NCMS) project for the UAE Naval Forces is part of efforts to empower the defence and security industries and acquire advanced defence equipment and technology to enhance the UAE’s position in this domain.
“The NCMS is aimed at developing a system that provides support for operational capabilities and offers national solutions through its local partner. Additionally, it aims to supply the armed forces with advanced defence products and enhance national competencies,” he added
He pointed out that the project provides sovereign advantages in terms of control, customization, and system updates to align with the needs of the Naval Forces at all times. This is achieved through the transfer of defence technology and naval combat management programmes, contributing to charting a promising roadmap for defence industrial capabilities.
Pierre Éric Pommellet, CEO of Naval Group, stated, “We are very pleased and honoured with this new step in our long-term cooperation and partnership with Tawazun Council. Naval Group remains committed to supporting the UAE’s ambition to enhance its defence and security industry with a cutting-edge naval combat system capacity.”
Basel Shuhaiber, CEO of Marakeb Technologies, commented, “The National Combat Management System involves the transfer of expertise from the renowned French company Naval Group, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to maritime strength.”
“Marakeb is proud to facilitate the cultivation of this knowledge, marking a historic milestone in our technological journey. We believe this collaboration will not only enhance our naval capabilities but also set new standards for maritime excellence in the region,” he added.