VISION Inauguration. (Safran/A. Daste)
Vision for Optronics & Navigation is the result of a long-standing collaboration between Safran Electronics & Defense and IGG
Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense, and Fadel Al Kaabi, CEO of International Golden Group (IGG), inaugurated on February 13 the new premises of their Vision for Optronics & Navigation joint venture located in the Tawazun Industrial Park, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The joint venture will be a major new player in the United Arab Emirates with the opening of a center of excellence dedicated to R&D and manufacture of critical military equipment. The center will focus on airborne, land and maritime optronics as well as inertial navigation, providing fast and efficient support to meet the needs of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces.
“The official opening of the Vision for Optronics & Navigation site marks a decisive step in our strategic partnership with International Golden Group,” said Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense. “This new center of excellence reflects our commitment to providing technologically advanced solutions and local support for the UAE Armed Forces. Together, we’re helping strengthen the sovereignty and operational superiority of our regional partners, supporting local economic development and expanding the country’s defense industrial base.”
The site, covering more than 800 square meters (8,600 sq.ft), boasts modern, scalable facilities, including state-of-the-art cleanrooms and advanced industrial equipment. It will create highly skilled jobs, helping to stimulate local economic development and strengthening the country’s defense industrial base.
As of now, Vision is providing local support and in-depth maintenance for the sighting systems currently used by the United Arab Emirates Army on its Leclerc tanks and other armored vehicles.
Through Vision, Safran Electronics & Defense is establishing a strong local presence and developing a comprehensive technology transfer strategy, in line with the objectives of the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. This initiative builds on the shared history and combined expertise of Safran and IGG to meet the needs of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces and other members of the Gulf Cooperation Council.
Guided by a commitment to share co-developments and adapt systems with the latest technologies to meet specific local requirements, Vision for Optronics & Navigation, Safran Electronics & Defense and International Golden Group are working together to maintain the highest standards of excellence in the defense industry.
