In a significant advancement within the space domain, the United Arab Emirates’ defense powerhouse, EDGE Group, has announced the launch of a new company called FADA. This initiative aims to enhance the UAE’s defense-related space capabilities and was unveiled in a statement today.
Commitment to Sovereign Space Capabilities
EDGE Group expressed its dedication to furthering the UAE’s strategic goals in defense and advanced technologies, emphasizing that FADA’s mission is to cultivate sovereign space capabilities and foster homegrown technologies within the country. Derived from the Arabic word for space, FADA is positioned to play a pivotal role in establishing a robust national space sector tailored to meet the UAE’s specific requirements.
In addition, the new entity plans to broaden international partnerships to benefit from Transfer of Technology (ToT) and Transfer of Knowledge (ToK), ensuring the UAE remains at the forefront of the evolving space landscape.
Comprehensive Space Solutions
FADA is expected to create state-of-the-art facilities aimed at the development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing of various satellite systems and subsystems. This comprehensive approach will provide a one-stop shop for all space-related activities, offering end-to-end solutions for local and international clients. Key offerings will include:
- Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
- Electro-Optical (EO) Payloads
- Infrared (IR) Payloads
- Satellite Platforms
- Satellite Cybersecurity and Protection Services
- Other ancillary space activities
Aligning with National Strategy
Hamad Al Marar, CEO of EDGE Group, highlighted that the establishment of FADA will enable EDGE to strengthen its position in the global space industry, in line with the UAE’s vision of emerging as a leader in space technologies. He described the initiative as a blueprint for creating a self-reliant and innovative ecosystem within the UAE.
Waleid Al Mesmari, head of space and cyber technologies at EDGE Group, added that a core objective of FADA will be to facilitate the development of satellite systems while simultaneously building a sustainable workforce with specialized skills in the space sector.
Strategic Investment and Future Goals
The launch of FADA aligns with the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030, announced in 2019, which aims to bolster national capabilities and enhance the country’s position in the global space arena. In 2021, the UAE allocated over $800 million to a national space fund to support this mission, intending to diversify the economy and develop competencies within the space sector.
FADA represents the UAE’s most significant move toward building a defense-related space industry and reflects the nation’s continued collaboration with Western defense firms to develop local platforms and capabilities.
Regional Context and Aspirations
The UAE is not alone in its pursuits within the space sector; the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also actively working to advance its space capabilities. There are plans to merge its air force with its nascent space force as part of this broader strategy, underscoring a regional commitment to enhance space capabilities and defense readiness.
In conclusion, the establishment of FADA marks a crucial development for the UAE in the space domain, reinforcing its ambitions of becoming a leader in space technologies while contributing to national defense and economic growth.
