French defense contractor Naval Group has signed an agreement to co-develop the National Combat Management System (NCMS) for the Emirati Navy.
The contract stipulates the “complete and extensive” transfer of technologies and associated processes from the company to Abu Dhabi’s local industry, maturing the capability’s production for warfighters.
The resulting solution will be integrated into the country’s naval fleet and cover both new and retrofit ship programs.
Naval Group signed the joint development framework in partnership with Abu Dhabi’s military acquisitions segment Tawazun Council and autonomy developer Makareb Technologies, which was selected as the prime domestic partner for the effort.
Supporting ‘UAE’s Ambition’
According to the French company, the agreement is part of the UAE’s goal to amplify its defense and security industries.
Naval Group added that the program will aid Abu Dhabi’s defense sector in sustaining rapid growth as it delivers tactical solutions for its evolving requirements.
“We are very pleased and honoured with this new step in our long-term cooperation and partnership with Tawazun Council,” Naval Group CEO Pierre Éric Pommellet stated.
“Naval Group remains committed to supporting the UAE’s ambition to enhance its defence and security industry with a cutting-edge naval combat system capacity.”
Latest Naval Partnerships
Naval Group secured a contract to design, manufacture, and evaluate an underwater drone for the French Navy last month.
In November 2023, the company delivered the Emirati Navy’s first Gowing-class corvette as part of a 2019 framework agreement. One month earlier, the firm launched the Hellenic Navy’s first Belharra-class frigate in Lorient.
In the Asia Pacific, Naval Group signed an agreement with the Indian government to modernize the country’s Kalvari-class submarines.
In 2022, the Philippines collaborated with Naval Group to equip Manila’s Jose Rizal-class frigates with anti-torpedo systems.
