Technology and defense company Edge Group and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), opening new channels for strategic collaboration in the high-potential underwater domain.
As disclosed, the MoU will see both groups collaborate on the design, development, and creation of advanced manned and unmanned underwater systems solution capability in the United Arab Emirates through their recently launched, Abu Dhabi-based shipbuilding joint venture, MAESTRAL.
This preliminary agreement will pave the way and boost for development of solutions tailored to the underwater needs of navies worldwide.
This collaboration marks EDGE Group’s first venture into the underwater domain. This cooperation is expected to enable both organizations to share knowledge and leverage extensive technical and production resources to develop a range of “innovative, interoperable manned and unmanned products”.
“ This agreement between Fincantieri and EDGE underscores a commitment to pioneering advancements in underwater technologies, combining engineering excellence with a forward-thinking approach. The underwater domain presents unique challenges, from fluid dynamics to communication and autonomy, which demand innovative and resilient solutions ,” Pierroberto Folgiero , Fincantieri CEO and Managing Director, said.
“ Together, we aim to develop systems that meet the highest standards of interoperability, addressing critical needs within both the defence and energy sectors. Our efforts are dedicated to setting new benchmarks in safety, resilience, and environmental responsibility in underwater operations, contributing significantly to both national capabilities and global maritime security”.
“In just five years, EDGE has boldly expanded its reach across every domain of advanced technology and defence. From the outset, we recognised that only through collaboration and partnership could we develop the technologies and expertise necessary for EDGE to lead in the air, land, sea, cyber, and space domains. Our ongoing partnership with Fincantieri exemplifies this strategy, opening limitless opportunities for both companies in the joint development and production of advanced surface and underwater naval solutions ,” Hamad Al Marar , Managing Director & CEO, EDGE stated.
The MAESTRAL joint venture concentrates on sales, commercial operations, and engineering for design and service of surface and underwater vessels and products.
In May this year, the two companies signed a contract with UAE Coast Guard Forces for the construction of ten offshore patrol vessels (OPVs). The P51MR class OPVs, based on Saettia-class ships, will be vessels characterized by high modularity, stability in rough sea conditions, low radar signal signature, and high operational flexibility.