The Brazilian Air Force will collaborate with Emirati defense conglomerate EDGE Group to develop state-of-the-art autonomous systems for defense.
A signing ceremony was held in the east of Brazil, with representatives from the service’s Department of Aerospace Science and Technology.
The partnership will see both entities jointly produce unmanned vehicles, smart weapons, and other defense items for air and space domains over an undisclosed period.
“The agreement is in line with EDGE’s strategy of building mutually beneficial partnerships supporting defense capability development in the UAE and Latin America, where EDGE recently established its first international office, located in Brasilia,” the Emirati firm stated.
EDGE Group said it has also held discussions with Brazil-based defense companies, such as SIATT (Sistemas Integrados de Alto Teor Tecnológico) and Turbomachine, for possible cooperation.
Expanding Reach
EDGE Group wants to expand its reach beyond the Gulf region and explore Latin America for defense opportunities.
It already inked several partnerships with Brazilian organizations, including the navy for the production of long-range anti-ship and supersonic missiles.
The Abu Dhabi-based firm has also joined forces with Turbomachine for the development of turbofan engines and propellants for various missile systems.
“EDGE is trying to find a niche region that has the ambitions to build up their militaries but don’t face pressing military threats,” Middle East analyst Ryan Bohl told Breaking Defense.
“Latin America in general falls into that category, with countries like Brazil wanting to become more independent and looking for new defense partners.”
The company recently showcased its tactical products to Latin American customers during a defense and security expo as part of this effort.
