Israel arms firms launches branch in UAE

Israeli weapons maker Elbit Systems yesterday launched a new venture in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of the Abraham Accords that saw Israel establish diplomatic ties with several Arab states.

The manufacturer of the Hermes armed drone and cutting-edge surveillance technology, among other products, said the joint venture, Elbit Systems Emirates (ESE) “will seek to foster a long-term cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces.”

“The UAE and other countries in the region are important new markets for Elbit. We believe that our broad portfolio of solutions positions us well to address the needs and opportunities in the region,” said Ran Kril, Elbit’s executive vice-president for international business development.

Last week, IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin visited the UAE for the first time and attended the Dubai International Air Chiefs' Conference (DIAC) for global air force commanders.

This visit is an example of the growing cooperation between air forces in the Middle East. pic.twitter.com/BlWghh32IN

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 14, 2021

Israeli air force commander Amikam Norkin was in the UAE over the weekend to attend the Dubai Airshow, after his Emirati counterpart visited Israel last month to observe Israel’s largest-ever joint military drill.

Defence Minister and former Israeli military chief of staff Benny Gantz and other senior defence officials are due to visit Dubai next week to inaugurate “the first-ever national pavilion” at the air show, Gantz’s office said in a statement.

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