This collaboration marks EDGE Group’s first venture into the underwater domain, enabling both organizations to share expertise and leverage extensive technical and production resources to develop a range of innovative, interoperable manned and unmanned products—further advancing the UAE’s sovereign capabilities in cutting-edge defense technologies, for the benefit of the UAE and other navies worldwide.
The MoU was signed by Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director & CEO, EDGE Group, Dr. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO & Managing Director, Fincantieri Group, and witnessed by Khaled Al Zaabi, President—Platforms & Systems, EDGE, Dario Deste, General Manager of the Fincantieri Naval Vessels Division together with other representatives of the Naval Vessels Division, at EURONAVAL, the world’s leading naval defense exhibition, currently being held in Paris.
Pierroberto Folgiero, Fincantieri CEO and Managing Director, said: “This agreement between Fincantieri and EDGE underscores a commitment to pioneering advancements in underwater technologies, combining engineering excellence with a forward-thinking approach. The underwater domain presents unique challenges, from fluid dynamics to communication and autonomy, which demand innovative and resilient solutions. Together, we aim to develop systems that meet the highest standards of interoperability, addressing critical needs within both the defense and energy sectors. Our efforts are dedicated to setting new benchmarks in safety, resilience, and environmental responsibility in underwater operations, contributing significantly to both national capabilities and global maritime security.”
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director & CEO, EDGE, added: “In just five years, EDGE has boldly expanded its reach across every domain of advanced technology and defense. From the outset, we recognized that only through collaboration and partnership could we develop the technologies and expertise necessary for EDGE to lead in the air, land, sea, cyber, and space domains. Our ongoing partnership with Fincantieri exemplifies this strategy, opening limitless opportunities for both companies in the joint development and production of advanced surface and underwater naval solutions.”
The MAESTRAL Joint Venture concentrates on sales, commercial operations, and engineering for the design and service of surface and underwater vessels and products while providing valuable employment opportunities for highly skilled local and international talent.
