Abu Dhabi’s EDGE, the UAE’s advanced technology and defense group, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Germany’s SFC Energy to develop power systems for defense, public security and critical infrastructure in the UAE, the German company said on Tuesday.
The agreement will be carried out within EDGE by Al Fahad Electrical Systems, an EDGE entity that specializes in integrated security systems and IT infrastructure.
The partners will adapt existing SFC products, including its SFC JENNY and SFC EMILY tactical fuel cells, EFOY hybrid power systems and SFC LAPS-R power supply platforms.
The systems will be customized for security applications, including high-energy and directed-energy laser systems, according to the SFC Energy announcement.
The first demonstrators are in development. The companies are exploring local manufacturing, integration and servicing in the UAE, as well as exports within the region. Financial terms were not disclosed.
“Reliable and resilient power is at the heart of national security,” said Yousuf Al Antali, chief executive of Al Fahad Electrical Systems. “By ensuring local integration, validation and manufacturing, we aim to strengthen the UAE’s long-term security and self-sufficiency.”
Peter Podesser, chief executive of SFC Energy, said the proof-of-concept projects would be the first step. “Local integration, servicing and manufacturing will then give us a firm foundation to grow in the UAE and regionally,” he said.
SFC Energy is based in Brunnthal, near Munich, and its shares trade in Germany. On Monday, EDGE said it had completed its acquisition of a controlling stake in Italian engine maker CMD.
