Reflecting the growing importance of unmanned and autonomous systems in the defence and security sector, IDEX welcomes a new addition in the form of the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference.
Having grown out of dedicated unmanned technology zones at previous IDEX shows, UMEX is now an exhibition in its own right. Running concurrently with IDEX, with its own dedicated displays indoors and outside, UMEX brings together exhibitors from many parts of the globe, and with a range of unmanned expertise and capability across land, sea, air and underwater domains.
“The growing sophistication of unmanned systems technology is rapidly defining the modern defence era. It is through strategic partnerships and industry associations that strong business growth is achieved,” said Saleh Al Marzooqi, IDEX chief executive officer.
“Unmanned systems represent the very leading edge of defence technology, reinforcing strong security infrastructures.
“Supported by UAE Armed Forces GHQ and attended by regional government delegations, agencies, industry, military and civilian authorities, the event will be the ideal business platform to promote unmanned systems technology and capability to a dedicated and focused industry audience.”
In addition to the on-site exhibition itself, there is an associated conference, and live UAV and unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) demonstrations, which are being conducted at Al Tarif, in the western region of Abu Dhabi. Sponsoring the demonstrations is Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments (ADASI), which is also the principal sponsor of UMEX.
“We are delighted to be growing our partnership with IDEX,” reported Ali Al Yafei, CEO of ADASI.
“Our regional lead in the fields of unmanned aerial systems and IDEX’s excellent reputation and outstanding expertise will make an ideal combination for the best-in-class unmanned systems exhibition in the region.”
Emirati companies have embraced the unmanned revolution and the nation has become the leading regional player in the sector, a fact reflected by the number of UAE-based companies exhibiting at UMEX alongside well-known international names such as General Atomics, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.
ADASI has become a centre of excellence in the region, with a number of important projects in its growing portfolio. Among them is the Al Sabr programme, which it manages for the UAE Armed Forces, based on the Schiebel Camcopter rotary-wing UAV. The company is also involved in aerostat ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) programmes, and is a partner in the development of a manned maritime patrol aircraft based on the Piaggio Aero Avanti airframe .
Source: Janes