MBDA, Tawazun and FLY-R Launch Defense Localization Projects in UAE

November 19, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764102285199-773

UAE Expands Missile Ecosystem with European Partnerships Amid Growing Defense Needs

MBDA, Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, and French company FLY-R have launched defense localization projects in the UAE. The initiatives include the establishment of MBDA’s fully owned UAE subsidiary and a co-development program to design and industrialize an AI-enabled loitering munition. This marks a significant milestone in MBDA’s regional presence and reflects the depth of its strategic partnership with Tawazun, Breaking Defense reports.

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Key Takeaways

European missile manufacturer MBDA launches fully owned UAE subsidiary.
Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement partners with MBDA on industrial projects.
Co-development program aims to design and industrialize AI-enabled loitering munition in the UAE.

MBDA Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement FLY-R

Strategic Implications

This initiative may suggest a shift towards localization of defense technologies in the UAE. The partnership between MBDA, Tawazun, and FLY-R could enhance national industrial capability-building and support technology transfer. The co-development program for an AI-enabled loitering munition indicates a focus on advanced missile systems.