Abu Dhabi-based defence and technology company EDGE has signed a major $2.45 billion naval contract with the Kuwait Ministry of Defence. The deal, announced during the first week of June 2025, marks one of the largest-ever defence export agreements for the UAE and highlights growing ties between the two Gulf nations.
Under the agreement, EDGE will design, build, and deliver a fleet of advanced landing vessels to the Kuwait Navy. The deal also includes integrated logistics support and training services, strengthening Kuwait’s maritime defence capabilities.
EDGE Kuwait Naval Contract Boosts Regional Defence Cooperation
The EDGE Kuwait naval contract is a major win for the UAE’s growing defence industry. The deal reflects both the technological strength of EDGE and the growing confidence other nations have in the UAE’s defence sector.
EDGE said the contract will involve the production of various types of military vessels tailored for amphibious operations, coastal protection, and troop transport. The vessels will be designed by Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), one of EDGE Group’s key subsidiaries specializing in military and commercial vessels.
Details of the Naval Deal: What Kuwait Will Receive
According to EDGE, the contract includes the delivery of:
- Landing platform docks (LPDs) for amphibious operations
- High-speed interceptors for coastal and border protection
- Landing crafts for logistical support
- Specialised naval support vessels
These vessels will enhance Kuwait’s ability to respond to maritime threats, secure its coastal waters, and support regional military operations if needed.
The agreement also includes training and logistics packages, ensuring that Kuwait’s naval forces are fully equipped to operate and maintain the vessels once they are delivered.
Strategic Importance of the EDGE Kuwait Naval Contract
This deal is not just about hardware. It represents a strategic partnership between the UAE and Kuwait, reflecting broader Gulf cooperation in military and security affairs. It also demonstrates how regional defence capabilities are being developed independently, reducing reliance on traditional Western suppliers.
Kuwait’s decision to choose a regional partner like EDGE signals a shift in how Gulf countries are thinking about defence procurement. It shows trust in homegrown capabilities and a desire to strengthen regional alliances.
EDGE’s Fast Growth in Global Defence Industry
EDGE was launched in 2019 to help the UAE develop its own advanced defence and technology capabilities. Since then, it has quickly become one of the top 25 military suppliers in the world.
In 2023, EDGE signed over $5 billion in defence contracts, and 2024 was another record year. This new Kuwait deal adds to EDGE’s growing list of international partners, which already includes countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
The company has been focusing on unmanned systems, smart weapons, cyber defence, and naval technology—all areas that are in high demand worldwide. The EDGE Kuwait naval contract proves the success of this strategy.
Comments from EDGE and Kuwait Officials
In a statement, Mansour AlMulla, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, said:
“This is a proud moment for EDGE. It shows the world that our products meet the highest global standards. We are honoured to support Kuwait in strengthening its naval forces.”
A senior official from the Kuwait Ministry of Defence added:
“This contract with EDGE reflects our commitment to strengthening our national defence using advanced, reliable, and regional partnerships.”
Both sides confirmed that work on the vessels will begin immediately, with deliveries expected in phases over the next several years.
Economic and Employment Impact in the UAE
The EDGE Kuwait naval contract will also benefit the UAE economy. Abu Dhabi Ship Building will manufacture most of the vessels in the UAE, creating hundreds of skilled jobs and boosting the country’s shipbuilding sector.
The deal supports the UAE’s broader industrial strategy to localise advanced manufacturing, especially in aerospace and defence. EDGE has already invested in expanding its shipbuilding capacity to handle such major projects.
The Broader Significance for Gulf Defence Partnerships
This contract is part of a wider trend of increasing Gulf defence cooperation. The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) nations have been looking to create more joint military capabilities and rely less on international suppliers.
By choosing EDGE, Kuwait is helping to strengthen the region’s collective defence capabilities. It also supports regional innovation and encourages more countries to consider Gulf-made defence technology.
This deal could open the door for more EDGE contracts in the region, especially as other Gulf navies modernize their fleets.
EDGE’s Naval Technology: A Look at Capabilities
EDGE’s naval division, led by ADSB, is known for producing a wide range of modern vessels including:
- Corvettes and fast patrol boats
- Mine countermeasure vessels
- Landing crafts and multi-role ships
The company uses advanced design software, AI-based control systems, and modular construction methods. This allows for faster build times, better maintenance, and future upgrades.
Their vessels are already used by the UAE Navy, and now, with the EDGE Kuwait naval contract, will soon serve in another major Gulf navy.
What Comes Next for EDGE?
With this contract, EDGE has set a new benchmark. The company plans to continue investing in its R&D and manufacturing facilities to take on more international projects.
Industry insiders believe that EDGE could soon become one of the top 10 global defence exporters, especially if more GCC countries follow Kuwait’s lead.
EDGE is also focusing on growing its presence in Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. These regions have growing defence budgets and are interested in affordable, high-quality military equipment.
Conclusion: A Milestone Moment for UAE’s Defence Sector
The EDGE Kuwait naval contract worth $2.45 billion is more than just a big business deal. It is a sign of the UAE’s arrival as a serious player in the global defence market. It also shows how Gulf countries are working together to secure their borders and build local capabilities.
As EDGE builds and delivers these advanced vessels, it not only strengthens Kuwait’s navy but also raises the UAE’s global profile in technology and security.
This historic agreement is expected to inspire more regional and international partnerships, pushing the boundaries of what the Gulf’s defence industries can achieve.
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