Euronaval 2024: EDGE Group and Brazilian Navy to Co-Develop Anti-Drone Defense Technology.

EDGE Group, a global defense and technology provider, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Brazilian Navy at the EURONAVAL 2024 exhibition in Paris. This collaboration aims to develop and deploy counter-drone systems tailored to naval defense needs, with a focus on autonomous surface and aerial technologies.
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The UAE enhances its counter-drone capabilities with advanced technology, international partnerships, and strategic acquisitions to safeguard national security and critical infrastructure. (Picture source: Generated by AI)

The agreement, formalized by Admiral Edgar Luiz Siqueira Barbosa of the Brazilian Navy and EDGE’s Managing Director & CEO Hamad Al Marar, outlines plans to enhance technical and operational coordination between the two entities. Building on previous projects like the MANSUP anti-ship systems, the MoU establishes a framework for shared knowledge and joint advancement in counter-drone technology.

As unmanned aerial vehicles increasingly present security challenges, counter-drone systems have become essential for naval operations. Combining radar, electro-optics, and signal-jamming technology, these systems can identify, track, and disrupt control signals to neutralize drone threats. The partnership aims to integrate such capabilities into the Brazilian Navy’s defenses, adding a multi-layered response to potential threats across the fleet.

UAE strategy

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly advanced its counter-drone warfare capabilities in response to the escalating threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Recognizing the potential risks to national security and critical infrastructure, the UAE has implemented a multifaceted strategy that includes domestic development, international collaboration, and strategic acquisitions.

Central to the UAE's counter-drone strategy is the development of indigenous solutions. EDGE Group, a leading UAE-based advanced technology and defense conglomerate, has been at the forefront of this initiative. In February 2023, EDGE's electronic warfare subsidiary, SIGN4L, unveiled the SKYSHIELD system at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX). SKYSHIELD is a multi-layered, integrated counter-UAS solution comprising advanced sensors, 3D radars, electro-optic cameras, and direction finders, all networked into a unified command and control system. This system provides real-time situational awareness and employs various countermeasures, including spoofing and jamming, to neutralize drone threats.

In January 2024, EDGE was awarded a contract by the UAE Ministry of Defence to deliver multiple SKYSHIELD systems, along with the NAVCONTROL-G system. NAVCONTROL-G enhances protection against hostile UAVs through sophisticated jamming and spoofing measures targeting guidance systems reliant on global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). This contract underscores the UAE's commitment to bolstering its national security through advanced, locally developed technologies.

The UAE has also engaged in international partnerships to enhance its counter-drone capabilities. In March 2021, EDGE entered into a memorandum of understanding with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to jointly develop advanced counter-UAS solutions tailored for the UAE market. This collaboration aims to leverage IAI's expertise in drone detection and interception technologies, thereby strengthening the UAE's defense infrastructure.

To further augment its counter-drone arsenal, the UAE has made strategic acquisitions from international defense firms. In January 2024, during the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX), the UAE signed contracts totaling approximately AED 899 million with domestic companies for counter-UAS systems and support services. Additionally, agreements valued at AED 72 million were made with international entities, including a deal with China's CTEC International for counter-UAS systems.

The UAE's counter-drone systems have been actively deployed in various operational contexts. Notably, the UAE has utilized the Russian-made Pantsir-S1 air defense system to counter drone threats. In June 2019, the UAE deployed several Pantsir-S1 systems to Libya to support the Libyan National Army. These systems have been involved in intercepting and neutralizing hostile drones in conflict zones, demonstrating their operational effectiveness.

By investing in advanced technologies and fostering global partnerships, the UAE is enhancing its defense capabilities to safeguard national security and protect critical infrastructure.