UAE firm inks another defense manufacturing agreement, Abu Dhabi’s robobuses move closer

More defense manufacturing localization lined up

The UAE is doubling down on manufacturing defense systems locally: UAE-based defense and tech firm Generation 5 Holding inked an exclusive partnership with South Korean defense manufacturer Hanwha Aerospace to collaborate on manufacturing and marketing a South Korean artillery weapon in the UAE, Wam reports. The partnership, which will focus on the K9 155mm Howitzer, comes as the Emirates continues to focus on investments and partnerships to bring more defense manufacturing in-house.

Abu Dhabi’s robobuses move closer to rollout

Abu Dhabi’s autonomous-bus plans are moving closer to rollout, with Abu Dhabi Mobility and Emirati smart-mobility firm Lumo now working through implementation, pilot projects, and technical studies for what they say would be MENA’s first autonomous public-bus trial, according to an Abu Dhabi Media Office statement. Abu Dhabi is aiming for smart and autonomous transport to account for 25% of all trips by 2040.

REMEMBER- Abu Dhabi has been preparing to launch autonomous buses with WeRide and K2, including a 20-passenger vehicle for Yas Island and campus shuttles at UAE University, with later expansion planned for Al Maryah and Reem islands. Ras Al Khaimah was also lining up WeRide robobuses for Al Marjan Island.