KATEM Partners with Kerno Enterprises to Boost Local Data Protection Manufacturing in UAE

Strategic Partnership Announcement

KATEM, a subsidiary of EDGE Group specializing in data protection solutions, has entered into a strategic partnership with Kerno Enterprises, the first manufacturer of enterprise-level IT equipment in the UAE. This collaboration is aimed at bolstering sovereign local manufacturing of KATEM products within the country and enhancing its existing design and development capabilities.

The partnership focuses on developing local manufacturing and integration capabilities for network encryption technologies, aligning with the UAE’s objectives to establish data sovereignty and enhance technological independence for critical infrastructure. The agreement was signed by Didier Baniou, CEO of KATEM, and Christopher Caswell, co-founder and CEO of Kerno, during the ‘Made in the UAE 2026’ event.

Manufacturing and Technological Advancements

The partnership will initially involve the manufacturing of the KATEM Gateway, a key product designed to secure high-capacity data flow across core networks and sensitive operations. This device features sovereign encryption resistant to post-quantum computing technologies. The first phase will focus on the local production of the X9001 and X9001-R portable versions of the KATEM Gateway, followed by expansion to the X9011 device, which will provide extensive data encryption solutions.

Didier Baniou emphasized that this partnership marks a significant step towards achieving comprehensive technological sovereignty for the UAE. He stated that through local manufacturing and integration of KATEM Gateway devices, EDGE Group plays a crucial role in enhancing data protection even in the most sensitive environments. Baniou reiterated KATEM’s commitment to delivering reliable sovereign solutions that operate seamlessly across various conditions.

Kerno Enterprises’ Role and Vision

Christopher Caswell highlighted the shared focus between Kerno and EDGE Group on reinforcing the UAE’s control over its critical infrastructure. He noted that the value of this partnership lies not only in performance but also in trust, security, and operational capability without reliance on external entities. By building local capabilities for manufacturing and supporting advanced systems, Kerno aims to establish a secure and sovereign infrastructure managed entirely within the UAE, particularly in environments where risk margins are minimal.

Founded in November 2019, EDGE Group has rapidly grown to become one of the world’s largest pioneering groups in advanced technology. The group aims to develop innovative solutions for the defense sector and contribute to advancements across various key industries. EDGE is committed to positioning the UAE as a global hub for future industries and facilitating clear pathways for the next generation of talent and expertise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the KATEM and Kerno partnership?

The partnership aims to enhance local manufacturing capabilities for data protection solutions in the UAE.

What products will be manufactured under this partnership?

The partnership will initially focus on the KATEM Gateway devices, including models X9001 and X9001-R.

How does this partnership align with UAE’s technological goals?

It supports the UAE’s objectives for data sovereignty and technological independence for critical infrastructure.

Who signed the partnership agreement?

The agreement was signed by Didier Baniou, CEO of KATEM, and Christopher Caswell, CEO of Kerno.

What is Kerno Enterprises’ role in the partnership?

Kerno is responsible for local manufacturing and integration of advanced IT solutions, enhancing the UAE’s technological capabilities.