Tawazun Signs Agreements to Enhance UAE’s Defense and Cybersecurity Industries

Tawazun Expands Defense Manufacturing Partnerships

At the Make in the UAE 2026 event in Abu Dhabi, Tawazun, the UAE’s defense and security empowerment council, announced a series of strategic agreements aimed at establishing an advanced defense industrial system. The initiatives also focus on developing cybersecurity capabilities and supporting entrepreneurs in the defense and dual-use technology sectors.

Among the key agreements is a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s LIG Aerospace, which will lead to the establishment of a global defense manufacturing center in the UAE. This partnership is designed to enhance research, development, and manufacturing capabilities while supporting maintenance services and supply chain integration. This move is expected to solidify the UAE’s position as a global hub for defense industries.

Additionally, Tawazun signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin to create a cybersecurity center of excellence in collaboration with Data 7 and the UAE Cybersecurity Council. This center aims to bolster national capabilities in digital security and localize advanced technologies, further enhancing the UAE’s cybersecurity infrastructure.

Support for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Tawazun also announced the launch of an entrepreneurship empowerment program aimed at qualifying Emirati startups in the defense and security industries, as well as dual-use technologies. The program will provide business incubators, specialized training programs, and support in investment, intellectual property, and advanced technologies. It will connect companies with opportunities within the economic balance program and advanced industrial infrastructure.

Officials from Tawazun emphasized that these initiatives reflect the UAE’s commitment to building a comprehensive sovereign industrial system that integrates advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and innovation. This strategic direction is intended to enhance the UAE’s global competitiveness.

Statements from Tawazun Officials

Sharif Hashem Al Hashemi, Director General of Tawazun’s Industrial Development Directorate, commented on the memorandum with LIG Aerospace, stating that it underscores Tawazun’s ongoing commitment to establishing high-quality international partnerships that translate into tangible industrial outputs for the UAE. He noted that attracting major global companies to expand their operations in the UAE is crucial for deepening industrial integration and enhancing national capabilities.

Regarding the cybersecurity center with Lockheed Martin, Nasser Hamid Al Nuaimi highlighted the significance of the agreement in translating national priorities into actionable programs that enhance long-term resilience and sustainability. He mentioned that Tawazun will continue to empower partnerships that develop sovereign capabilities and support national competencies.

Ammar Ali Al Harmoudi, Director of the Industrial Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Directorate at Tawazun, noted that the entrepreneurship empowerment program is a fundamental pillar of Tawazun’s efforts to develop an advanced and integrated innovation system in the defense and security sectors. The focus is on enabling national talents and startups to play a pivotal role in developing future priority technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What agreements did Tawazun sign at the event?

Tawazun signed agreements with LIG Aerospace to establish a defense manufacturing center and with Lockheed Martin for a cybersecurity center.

What is the purpose of the entrepreneurship empowerment program?

The program aims to qualify Emirati startups in defense and security sectors, providing support and training.

How does Tawazun plan to enhance cybersecurity in the UAE?

Through the establishment of a cybersecurity center of excellence in partnership with Lockheed Martin and other entities.

What is Tawazun’s objective with these initiatives?

To build a comprehensive sovereign industrial system that enhances the UAE’s global competitiveness.