Kuwait’s Pursuit of Naval Deterrence and Coastal Defense with EDGE Built FALAJ 3 Missile Boats.

On June 4, 2025, the Emirati group EDGE announced the signing of a landmark AED 9 billion (USD 2.45 billion) contract with the Ministry of Defence of Kuwait for the supply of FALAJ 3-class missile patrol vessels. This contract represents the largest naval export deal ever concluded in the region and ranks among the most significant globally. The agreement marks a notable strengthening of military relations between the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, while also highlighting the rapid development of the UAE’s defense industrial sector.
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The FALAJ 3 missile patrol vessel, developed by ADSB, is a 62.7-meter-long platform designed for operations in both littoral and blue waters (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Under the terms of the contract, EDGE will act as the prime contractor, responsible for the design, construction, testing, and delivery of the vessels. The group will also supply ammunition and provide Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) and In-Service Support (ISS), demonstrating its capability to deliver comprehensive defense solutions. Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), EDGE’s naval subsidiary and the UAE’s primary shipbuilder, has been tasked with carrying out the construction of the vessels.

The FALAJ 3 missile patrol vessel, developed by ADSB, is a 62.7-meter-long platform designed for operations in both littoral and blue waters. Based on the proven Fearless-class platform, it is suited for asymmetric warfare scenarios and multi-domain missions. Equipped with a modern combat management system and a suite of sensors combining radar, infrared, and laser technologies, the vessel is capable of conducting air, surface, and sub-surface operations with high responsiveness and precision.

The FALAJ 3 is characterized by a reduced radar, infrared, and acoustic signature, enhancing its stealth at sea. It offers high survivability through CBRN protection, watertight compartmentalization, and fire zone separation, following international naval classification standards and US Navy stability requirements. The vessel features full redundancy for critical and major systems to ensure operational continuity in combat conditions.

Powered by four marine engines and four propellers, the vessel exceeds 25 knots and offers a range of 2,000 nautical miles at 16 knots. It is armed with missiles, rockets, and medium-caliber guns, and is equipped with decoy launchers for soft-kill countermeasures. Its integrated platform management system enables centralized control of all onboard systems and is supported by four generators delivering 1.2 megawatts of power. The vessel also includes a rigid-hull inflatable boat for rapid tactical deployment, making it a compact and capable naval solution for modern coastal defense and regional operations.

Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE, emphasized the strategic dimension of the agreement, stating that it reinforces Kuwait’s naval capabilities and confirms EDGE’s ability to deliver complex naval platforms internationally. He also indicated that the deal reflects growing international confidence in the UAE’s defense industry and supports the group’s export-driven growth strategy.

The FALAJ 3 vessels selected by Kuwait are already in service with the UAE Navy, which commissioned the lead ship, ALTAF, in February 2025. Measuring 62 meters, these patrol vessels are designed for coastal operations and feature advanced combat systems that provide agility and performance in littoral environments. The commissioning of ALTAF demonstrated the class’s operational effectiveness, which influenced Kuwait’s decision to adopt the same platform adapted to its requirements.

This major agreement confirms EDGE as a strategic supplier of integrated defense systems and supports the UAE’s objectives in defense export and international industrial collaboration. Through this program, EDGE contributes to strengthening regional security while positioning the United Arab Emirates as a global center for military technological innovation.