EDGE Group and Safran signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition in Paris. The deal creates a structured framework for deeper cooperation between the UAE‑based advanced technology and defence group and the French aerospace and defence leader.
The agreement broadens the scope of joint work across defence electronics, smart weapons and other key areas, building on more than three decades of Safran’s presence in the United Arab Emirates. By extending the partnership to a wider range of equipment, capabilities and know‑how, the two groups aim to address the profound shift in modern warfare, including the growing role of unmanned systems, electronic warfare and the need for greater resilience and autonomy of defence capabilities.
“Safran and EDGE have built something genuine here, a partnership grounded in shared values, complementary capability, and a common belief that the best defence solutions are built together. Signing this agreement in Paris, in the week that EDGE Europe opens its doors, reflects how far this relationship has come and how much further we intend to take it.”
— Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO, EDGE
“Safran’s long‑standing presence in the United Arab Emirates provides a solid foundation for our partnership with EDGE. Through this Strategic Cooperation Agreement, we are committed to building a shared vision focused on developing advanced technologies and innovative solutions. By combining our respective strengths and expertise, Safran and EDGE aim to accelerate the emergence of high‑value capabilities to address current and future challenges in the aerospace and defence sectors.”
— Olivier Andriès, Chief Executive Officer, Safran
Safran is an international high‑technology group operating in aviation – covering propulsion, equipment and interiors – as well as defence and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world where air transport becomes more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. With a global workforce of around 100,000 employees, Safran holds world or European leadership positions in its core markets and pursues research and development programmes that align with its environmental and innovation roadmap.
EDGE, launched in November 2019, is one of the world’s leading advanced technology groups. It was created to develop agile, bold and disruptive solutions for defence and beyond, acting as a catalyst for change and transformation. The group focuses on the adoption of fourth‑industrial‑revolution technologies, driving sovereign capabilities for export and national security, and works with front‑line operators and international partners on autonomous systems, cyber‑physical systems, advanced propulsion, robotics and smart materials. EDGE converges research, development and emerging‑technology expertise to bring breakthrough innovations to market with greater speed and efficiency.
The new cooperation agreement reflects both organisations’ commitment to combine their complementary strengths. By pooling Safran’s long‑standing regional experience with EDGE’s rapid‑innovation approach, the partnership is positioned to deliver high‑value capabilities that meet the evolving demands of modern defence and aerospace environments.
Frequently asked questions
When did EDGE Group and Safran sign their Strategic Cooperation Agreement?
EDGE Group and Safran signed their Strategic Cooperation Agreement at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition in Paris.
What areas of collaboration are covered under the EDGE Group and Safran agreement?
The partnership focuses on defence electronics, smart weapons, unmanned systems, electronic warfare, and emerging technologies.
How long has Safran been operating in the United Arab Emirates?
Safran has maintained a presence in the UAE for over three decades, forming the foundation for its partnership with EDGE.
Who are the key leaders involved in the EDGE and Safran partnership?
Hamad Al Marar (EDGE CEO) and Olivier Andriès (Safran CEO) spearheaded the Strategic Cooperation Agreement.
What is the goal of the EDGE Group and Safran partnership?
The collaboration aims to address modern warfare challenges by combining advanced technologies, resilience, and innovation in defence capabilities.
