Egypt has taken a significant step in enhancing its defence industrial capabilities by signing a series of agreements with China’s Norinco and the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Aviation Group. Announced at the Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX) 2025, these deals demonstrate Egypt’s ambition to become a regional hub for defence production and technology. The agreements focus on local manufacturing, aviation maintenance, logistics, technology transfer, and expanding export markets, signaling a major transformation for the country’s military and industrial sectors.
The Arab Organisation for Industrialisation (AOI), Egypt’s premier defence and industrial entity, spearheaded these partnerships. AOI aims to combine domestic manufacturing capabilities with international expertise to boost production efficiency and quality. By collaborating with leading global defence companies, Egypt is positioning itself as a competitive force in defence manufacturing in both regional and international markets.
AOI and Norinco Join Forces to Advance Local Defence Production
The AOI signed a memorandum of understanding with Chinese defence giant Norinco, marking a new chapter in Egypt-China defence collaboration. The agreement is designed to localise the manufacturing of advanced defence systems by leveraging AOI’s existing facilities and advanced manufacturing infrastructure.
According to AOI Chairperson Major General Mokhtar Abdel Latif, the partnership focuses on technology transfer and upgrading domestic production capabilities. The agreement is part of Egypt’s broader strategy to transform from a defence equipment consumer into a country capable of producing sophisticated defence technologies.
Abdel Latif emphasized that the AOI aims to become a hub for cooperation and knowledge exchange with Norinco. By combining Egyptian industrial capacity with Chinese technological expertise, the collaboration is expected to enhance Egypt’s defence self-sufficiency and provide solutions for allied nations in the region.
Norinco officials described the deal as a starting point for long-term cooperation in advanced defence technologies. They highlighted AOI’s role as Egypt’s industrial backbone, making it an ideal partner for expanding defence manufacturing in the Middle East and Africa. This partnership not only strengthens Egypt’s local production capabilities but also sets the stage for future industrial and technological collaborations.
Egypt and UAE Strengthen Ties Through Major Aviation Agreements
Alongside the agreement with Norinco, AOI signed seven separate deals with the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Aviation Group, one of the region’s leading aviation and aerospace organizations. These collaborations focus on aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair, logistics support, and technical training.
The agreements connect AOI’s Aircraft Factory, Engine Factory, and Helwan Factory with subsidiaries of Abu Dhabi Aviation Group, including Maximus Air, Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL), and the Advanced Military Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul Centre (AMMROC).
Witnessed by AOI Chairperson Mokhtar Abdel Latif, Abu Dhabi Aviation Group Chairman Mahmoud Al-Hameli, and Tawazun Council Secretary General Nasser Humaid Al-Neyadi, the signing ceremony reflected the strategic importance of these partnerships for both countries.
The deals include joint manufacturing of aviation components, development of maintenance and repair capabilities, and shared marketing strategies. Al-Hameli stated that Abu Dhabi Aviation Group has strict quality requirements, which AOI facilities are well-equipped to meet. He emphasized that this partnership promotes industrial integration, investment, and knowledge sharing between Egypt and the UAE.
This collaboration provides Egypt with a significant opportunity to enhance technical skills in aircraft servicing, improve supply chain efficiency, and attract international clients looking for reliable and cost-effective aviation services. The partnership also strengthens bilateral ties and reflects a mutual commitment to advancing the aerospace and defence sectors.
AOI Expands Industrial Portfolio With UAE-Chinese Firm Al-Qalaa Red Flag
In addition to the deals with Norinco and Abu Dhabi Aviation, AOI signed a memorandum of understanding with Al-Qalaa Red Flag, a UAE-Chinese firm specializing in defence and advanced industrial technologies. This partnership aims to explore investment in new production lines across various defence sectors.
Abdel Latif highlighted that this agreement builds on previous industrial cooperation with Al-Qalaa Red Flag and seeks to boost exports to Arab and African markets. The partnership will leverage AOI’s advanced manufacturing infrastructure and Al-Qalaa Red Flag’s experience in industrial technology to develop innovative defence solutions.
Officials from Al-Qalaa Red Flag expressed their intention to open new export outlets and enhance local manufacturing technologies. By combining Egypt’s production capabilities with international expertise, the partnership is expected to create competitive products for regional defence markets. This collaboration aligns with Egypt’s strategy to diversify industrial output, attract foreign investment, and strengthen its defence manufacturing base.
EDEX 2025 Showcases Egypt’s Vision for Defence Industrial Growth
The agreements signed at EDEX 2025 underline Egypt’s vision to become a key regional player in defence production and technology. EDEX, an international platform for defence manufacturers, technology developers, and government delegations, provides Egypt with an opportunity to highlight its capabilities and secure global partnerships.
Through collaboration with China and the UAE, Egypt is integrating advanced technology into domestic production while promoting industrial self-sufficiency. The AOI’s partnerships with these international companies demonstrate how strategic alliances can accelerate growth, enhance technological expertise, and expand export markets.
Egypt’s ability to attract international partners reflects confidence in its manufacturing infrastructure, technical expertise, and strategic location. These partnerships position the country to meet growing regional defence demands while fostering innovation and knowledge exchange across the sector.
A Future Built on Technology, Cooperation, and Economic Growth
The deals signed at EDEX 2025 extend beyond industrial agreements. They represent Egypt’s long-term strategy to become a self-reliant and globally competitive defence manufacturer. By combining domestic capabilities with international expertise, the AOI is fostering technological development and preparing for sustainable growth.
The collaboration with Norinco will provide advanced technology for local defence production. Partnerships with Abu Dhabi Aviation will strengthen aviation and logistical capabilities while enabling joint ventures in aircraft maintenance and repair. The Al-Qalaa Red Flag agreement further supports the creation of new production lines and expands export opportunities to Arab and African markets.
These initiatives are expected to improve Egypt’s industrial capacity, create new economic opportunities, and reinforce its strategic influence in the region. The combined focus on technology, training, and investment reflects a forward-thinking approach to defence industrial development.
Conclusion: A Transformative Step for Egypt’s Defence Industry
The agreements signed at EDEX 2025 mark a turning point for Egypt’s defence sector. By partnering with China’s Norinco, the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Aviation, and Al-Qalaa Red Flag, Egypt is strengthening its position as a regional hub for defence manufacturing and technology.
These collaborations highlight Egypt’s commitment to innovation, industrial self-reliance, and international cooperation. Through technology transfer, local production, and expanded export channels, the AOI is building a strong foundation for the country’s defence industry.
Egypt’s strategic partnerships reflect a comprehensive vision for industrial growth, economic development, and regional influence. With these deals in place, the country is well-positioned to become a leader in defence manufacturing, supporting both domestic requirements and international markets.
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