Israel And UAE Work Together On Gulf Defense

Israel and the UAE have, for the first time, jointly developed an unmanned marine vessel.

It’s a further indication of their growing military ties, made possible by the US-brokered Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between the two countries in 2020.

The autonomous vessel is fitted with sensors, and sonar and imaging systems, as well as a command and control system that does not require human intervention. 

It’s aimed at addressing the growing maritime threats in the Gulf Region, which has experienced years of missile and drone attacks blamed on neighbor Iran.

The joint project was presented at the NAVDEX (Naval Defense and Maritime Security Exhibition) exhibition in Abu Dhabi by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). The vessel was built by the IAI, UAE-based shipbuilding company ADSB, and UAE-based technological group EDGE. 

Such autonomous vessels can carry out border and coastal surveillance, as well as maritime security, mine-detection, submarine detection, and anti-submarine warfare.

They can also be used for civilian activities, including pollution detection and monitoring, oil and gas drilling, search and rescue and firefighting.

“The unmanned maritime vessel we are exhibiting represents a historic moment: for the first time, cooperation between Israel and the United Arab Emirates has resulted in an advanced technological product which includes autonomous systems and robotics,” said Boaz Levy, Israel Aerospace Industries’ President and CEO.

“This joint realization is taking place in the UAE, and incorporates the very best technological knowledge of EDGE and ADSB, specialists in maritime and commercial activities, together with Israel Aerospace Industries. 

“Our advanced technology allows us to leverage business opportunities ensuring the growth of both companies for many customers around the world.”