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2023-12-13
Dubai Airshow 2023:A Sky-High Success with Record Breaking Deals
The 18th edition of Dubai Airshow, held at Dubai World Central (DWC) from November 13-17, has rewritten the narrative of innovation and collaboration!
The five-day spectacle witnessed a staggering US$101 billion in deals. It welcomed over 135,000 attendees, witnessing a remarkable 30 per cent increase in footfall compared to the previous edition.
The mega event featured more than 1,400 exhibitors from over 95 countries, 350+ international leading speakers, 80+ start-ups and 20 country pavilions who, collectively, re-defined the future of the industry along with 190+ aircraft on static and flying display.
President’s Visit
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the event at DWC, where he toured the exhibition spaces and pavilions and viewed the exhibits of the various local and international companies.
His Highness engaged in discussions with exhibitors and was briefed on the latest advances in the aviation sector, including the use of innovative technologies and developments in the utilisation of sustainable aviation fuel.
He noted that the event’s continued success since its inception reflects the UAE’s significant role as a key partner in the global aviation industry.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Airshow showcased the unflagging commitment of the aviation, aerospace and defence industries to sustained technological advancements.
Sheikh Mohammed said, “The Dubai Airshow has consolidated its position more as the most important event on the global map for the aviation and defence industry characterised by huge billion-dollar deals that take place in the exhibition, strengthening the future of global aviation sector while tackling challenges.”
Notable Deals
On the final day, Tawazun Council signed 10 deals worth AED 1.415 billion with local and international companies on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. This elevated the total value of deals by Tawazun Council on behalf of the Ministry of Defence to AED 23.06 billion across 54 deals.
These included a deal with HALCON to procure ammunition worth AED2.14 billion and two contracts with International Golden Group, the first an AED338 million contract to provide technical support for aircraft and the second for the purchase of engines and aircraft parts put at AED13 million.
Some of the other notable deals at the mega event included Emirates placing an order worth US$52 billion for 95 additional wide-body aircraft — including Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s — on the opening day.
Powering the airline’s growth plans, it also placed an order worth US$6 billion for 15 additional Airbus A350-900 jets.
Ethiopian Airlines Group signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s to be added to its existing fleet, confirming its position as Africa’s biggest A350 customer. It announced an order of 11 787-9 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX 8 aircraft, with options for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively.
Latvian airline airBaltic confirmed an incremental order for an additional 30 A220-300s, which will make it the largest A220 customer in Europe.
The UAE Space Agency used the event as a platform to unveil the timeline of the journey of the MBR Explorer, the spacecraft for the Emirates Mission to Asteroid Belt (EMA).
Other key announcements included an MoU between the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and EANAN, a UAE technology company leading the next evolutionary step in transportation through advanced air mobility (AAM) solutions.
Flight towards Sustainability
Sustainability took the spotlight, echoing a resounding call from industry leaders to address aviation’s environmental impact head-on.
The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Users Group was revealed, marking a collaborative effort aimed at accelerating the integration of SAF into mainstream aviation operations.
Additionally, the debut of the Aviation Climate Alliance took centre stage, heralding a strategic alliance with a clear objective: steering the industry towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Advancing Local Talent
The Dubai Airshow 2023 was a pivotal platform where innovation soared and groundbreaking ideas materialised. NextGen Leaders and “Make it in the Emirates” converged, offering strategic sessions for skilled students and professionals to advance in aerospace. Industry experts shared career insights, emphasising essential skills and Artificial Intelligence’s role.
Exclusive tours granted students insights into aerospace, space, and defence giants’ plans. NextGen Leaders aimed to mentor talent for these industries’ future. The event championed “Make it in the Emirates,” facilitating international companies in exploring UAE manufacturing benefits through strategic meetings, guiding them towards establishing a presence in the country.
Among the prominent companies that participated were:
Eurofighter Excellence
Eurofighter made a strong impact, showcasing the Striker II Helmet and a static Typhoon. CEO Giancarlo Mezzanatto highlighted Eurofighter GmbH’s commitment to supporting Middle East customers and fostering collaboration.
The Typhoon’s air superiority, propelled by its air-to-air prowess with Beyond Visual Range missiles like Meteor and an E-SCAN radar with Antenna re-positioner, proved its might as an advanced swing-role platform.
Future enhancements focus on robust sensors with electronic attack capabilities, leveraging increased data processing and cockpit evolution.
Robust RTX
Raytheon’s integrated air and missile defence systems were at the show, including the NASAMS Air Defence Console (ADC), which showcased Raytheon’s global partnership with Kongsberg and highlighted comprehensive approach to safeguarding nations and critical assets. Connected battlespace solutions, in coordination with Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney, were also demonstrated.
Innovative Contractors for Advanced Dimensions (ICAD) chose Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, for airport operational and passenger processing systems at NEOM Bay Airport in NEOM City, KSA, aiming to become a major global hub. Collins will deploy its suite, including operational databases, resource management, messaging, baggage, and self-bag drop systems.
NEOM Bay Airport’s Terminal 1 & Terminal 2 phase, due by 2023, features Collins’ kiosks, VeriPax travel verification, BagLink, Muse, AirVue displays, and AirPlan AODB system for streamlined airport technology.
Collins’ Creation
Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, showcased its NASA-selected next-gen spacesuit for the International Space Station. The company partnered with ILC Dover and Oceaneering, earning a contract to support lunar mission suit development. The suit, designed to accommodate diverse body types, underwent upgrades for comfort and versatility. Innovations promised reduced mass, enhanced mobility, and durability. Rigorous tests simulated lunar and underwater environments before space deployment, ensuring functionality in extreme conditions.
Collins unveiled the Zero-G HDMS+ helmet for advanced fighters and space capabilities, NP2000 propeller systems for C130H fleet upgrades in the region, aftermarket and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) solutions, and cabin interior seats for sustainable aviation, showcasing their connected ecosystem.
MBDA Milestones
The UAE and MBDA aim for a 2030 production debut for jointly developed smart weapons, marking a major Gulf-European defence collaboration since establishing a joint missile engineering centre in Abu Dhabi. The centre, formed by MBDA and UAE’s Tawazun Council, pre-produces the Smart Cruiser and Smart Glider, integrating UAE-owned IP with MBDA systems.
Equipped with MBDA’s Orchestrike, these systems enable swarming capabilities, smart trajectory manipulation, and communication with control centres and effectors. Primarily air-to-ground, these AI-embedded weapons deceive air defences and facilitate cloud combat.
The munition’s external launcher holds six missiles while an internal model aims for integration into Europe’s future 6th generation fighter design.
Saab’s Security Suite
Saab showcased a suite of cutting-edge systems empowering users for an unpredictable world. The GlobalEye, an advanced AEW&C solution, offers simultaneous air, maritime, and ground surveillance. DeployNet, a UAE-produced 5G wireless network, enables swift, secure voice and data communication, a collaboration with the UAE’s Tawazun Council.
The renowned Giraffe radars provide vital air surveillance, ground-based air defence, drone detection, and warning capabilities. The T-7, a state-of-the-art pilot trainer jet, targets the next combat pilot generation.
Saab also presented the Integrated Digital Tower Suite, a versatile civil and military solution, and r-TWR Deployable, offering mission modularity.
Domeshelter Durability
DomeShelter Australia, specialising in fabric shelters across industries like mining and aviation, exhibited its solutions. Its recent deal with the Royal Australian Air Force’s Air Warfare Centre involves supplying two DomeShelter Kits as hangars, a milestone for the West Australian SME. These kits, designed and made locally, offer rapid assembly and dismantling, enabling flexible aircraft deployment for training. When set on 20-foot containers, they form cyclone-rated, fire-retardant hangars, easily deployable and relocatable.
Company Director Trevor Fawkes highlighted the versatility of DomeShelter Structures, crucial for Defence, including hangars, warehouses, workshops, and disaster response shelters. These solutions are swift to erect, movable, and engineered to withstand severe cyclonic conditions, catering to Defence Industry needs.
Eurosam’s Expertise
EUROSAM, supported by MBDA France, MBDA Italia, and Thales, showcased latest air defence and missile systems vital for modern military protection. Highlighting expertise in safeguarding against diverse threats, it exhibited the SAMP/T NG air defence system, guarding against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and aircraft.
Deployed by French, Italian, and British forces, the system features the Aster 30 Block 1 missile, intercepting targets up to 120 km away and 30 km high. EUROSAM’s MAMBA, a mobile defence system, shields frontline troops and assets with the Mistral missile. The Exocet anti-ship missile, with a range of 300 km, diversely deploys from aircraft, ships, and submarines.
Embraer’s E-195-E2 Entry
Embraer presented its capabilities in defence and security, commercial and business aviation, technology and innovation.
Among the main highlights of the static exhibition was the E-195-E2 commercial jet, which made its public debut with an exciting new livery the Tech Eagle livery, reflecting high-technology characteristics, excellent performance, efficiency, and low noise.
Additional aircraft on display were the Praetor 600, the technologically advanced executive jet in its category, the C-390 Millennium multi-mission military tactical transport aircraft and the A-29 Super Tucano training, aerial interception and surveillance aircraft.
Additional aircraft on display were the Praetor 600, the technologically advanced executive jet in its category, the C-390 Millennium multi-mission military tactical transport aircraft and the A-29 Super Tucano training, aerial interception and surveillance aircraft.
Eve Air Mobility displayed the full-size model of the electric vertical take-off landing (eVTOL) vehicle cabin.
flydubai’s Flight Foray
Boeing and flydubai signed an agreement for 30 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the airline’s expansion into widebody jets. flydubai plans to utilise the efficient 787 to launch new routes and increase capacity on existing ones. With a capacity of 296 passengers and a range of 14,010 km (7,565 nautical miles) plus ample cargo space, the 787 family, operational since 2011, has enabled over 380 new nonstop global routes.
PAL’s Pathway
PAL Aerospace Aircraft Services Aircraft Maintenance LLC (PAL LLC), an Emirati-owned company, celebrates a decade of operations in the UAE, excelling in Special Mission Aircraft (SMA) design, engineering, integration, and support.
PAL LLC showcased locally made special mission hardware, software, and integration capabilities, illustrating its vital role in UAE mission success.
Holding prestigious accreditations like CAR145 GCAA AMO, DOA Satellite Office, EN9110, EN9120, ISO 9001, and ISO/IEC 27001, PAL LLC collaborates closely with GCAA, MAA, and global certification bodies. Its Centre of Excellence in Abu Dhabi focuses on specialised SMA equipment manufacturing, software development, and in-service support, aiming to serve UAE and global clients.
Flightwin Focus
Flightwin-Innovation, a Chinese firm specialising in heavy-lift unmanned helicopters, showcased its FWH-1500 tonne-level and FWH-3000 tandem rotor unmanned helicopters, along with comprehensive solutions.
The Flightwin helicopters have executed fire suppression and 10-day flood relief in Beijing, catering to various fields like transportation, medical rescue, and forest fire fighting. The FWH-1500, with a 300kg payload, conducted geophysical surveys and supported public security. The FWH-3000, featuring a tandem rotor layout, offered spacious interiors and a 1,000-kg payload, aiding medical transport with a five-hour endurance.
The Flightwin helicopters have executed fire suppression and 10-day flood relief in Beijing, catering to various fields like transportation, medical rescue, and forest fire fighting. The FWH-1500, with a 300kg payload, conducted geophysical surveys and supported public security. The FWH-3000, featuring a tandem rotor layout, offered spacious interiors and a 1,000-kg payload, aiding medical transport with a five-hour endurance.
IAF’s Sky Spectacle
The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased its prowess on the show’s first day with a striking display. The indigenous Tejas fighter jet stole the spotlight, demonstrating India’s technological advancements. The homegrown multirole combat aircraft amazed with superior manoeuvrability, cutting-edge capabilities, and breathtaking aerial acrobatics, captivating aviation enthusiasts. Commanded by Gp Capt DK Dhankhar, Tejas, meaning “Radiance,” and the Sarang helicopter display team, meaning “Peacock,” showcased India’s indigenous aircraft and capabilities, led by Group Captain Shivam Manchanda.
Leonardo’s Lineup
Leonardo highlighted its prowess in electronics and helicopters, exhibiting systems, training solutions, and support services. Exploring emerging fields like Artificial Intelligence, space, and cyber security, the company reaffirmed its competitive stance.
The showcased TMMR catered to anti-drone and C-RAM defence, while the Osprey radar served land and maritime surveillance. An Italian Guardia di Finanza’s AW169 helicopter featured advanced configurations and toured the country, boasting enhanced performance and Search And Rescue modes, ideal for regional fleet modernisation in public services and energy industry support.
The showcased TMMR catered to anti-drone and C-RAM defence, while the Osprey radar served land and maritime surveillance. An Italian Guardia di Finanza’s AW169 helicopter featured advanced configurations and toured the country, boasting enhanced performance and Search And Rescue modes, ideal for regional fleet modernisation in public services and energy industry support.
Dassault’s Demos
Dassault Aviation celebrated 50 years of partnership with the UAE at the show. Since 1973, it has partnered with the UAE Armed Forces, operating Mirage 2000-9s and ordering 80 Rafales in December 2021. Its display featured a Rafale C combat aircraft, Rafale F4 simulator, and Falcon 2000LXS business aircraft.
The Falcon series, numbering nearly 700 deliveries, includes the Falcon 10X with a 7,500-nautical-mile range. Dassault’s reliability and comfort are highly valued in the Middle East, with Dubai serving as a crucial hub in their support network, housing a new maintenance centre at Al Maktoum airport managed by ExecuJet MRO Services.
Royal Retrofit
Boeing and Royal Jordanian confirmed an order for four 787-9 Dreamliner jets, expanding the airline’s widebody fleet. This supplements their existing order for two 787-9s, totalling six. Samer Majali, Royal Jordanian’s vice chairman and CEO, highlighted his company’s commitment to an exceptional travel experience, aligning with their modernisation strategy focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and passenger comfort.
The Dreamliner family’s addition will increase the airline’s operational capabilities, with Boeing Global Services enhancing in-flight connectivity for existing 787s through modification services and engineering work.
The Dreamliner family’s addition will increase the airline’s operational capabilities, with Boeing Global Services enhancing in-flight connectivity for existing 787s through modification services and engineering work.
L3’s Local Leverage
Gary W. Rosholt, Former Corporate Vice-President of Middle East Operations at L3Harris Technologies, lauded the strides made through their partnerships with local industries. Rosholt emphasised pride in collaborations, notably with the EDGE Group and Calidus Aerospace. He highlighted seamless integration of L3Harris mission systems into Calidus’s B-250 attack aircraft, featuring advanced components like mission management systems and Wescam’s MX-15D optics.
He revealed insights into Viper Shield, an EW system for Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70/72, selected by Bahrain, Jordan, and Morocco, marking a significant honour for L3Harris.
He revealed insights into Viper Shield, an EW system for Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70/72, selected by Bahrain, Jordan, and Morocco, marking a significant honour for L3Harris.
ELT’s Electronics Endeavours
At ELT’s booth, visitors learned about the Italian company’s involvement with the UAE and its capabilities in defence and security. ELT highlighted Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO) solutions, focusing on safeguarding Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) against electronic attacks and cyberwarfare. It presented SCORPIO, the first Electronic Intelligence sensor launched into LEO (Low Earth Orbit) last April. ELT Group designed technological solutions for monitoring and protecting Earth through electromagnetic signals to and from Space, addressing challenges like cyber-attacks that disrupted satellite systems.
Safran Seats
Safran and Emirates sealed contracts worth over US$1.2 billion, primarily for Safran Seats on Emirates’ Airbus A350 and Boeing 777X-9, including the existing 777-300 fleet. The deal encompasses seats across classes, offering spaciousness, luxury, and advanced tech. Safran Cabin provides galleys for the A350 and B777-9, Safran Landing Systems supplies wheels and brakes for the A350, and Safran Passenger Innovations enhances connectivity with its RAVE AeroConnect Ka solution.
Sikorsky Sky Solutions
Sikorsky showcased its MATRIX autonomy flight control system across various aircraft for both military and commercial applications over the past year. Demonstrations highlighted missions performed with two, one, or zero onboard pilots. Collaborating with RAIN in wildfire response and NASA’s AAM National Campaign for eVTOL advancement, Sikorsky aims to integrate autonomous flight into future airspace regulations, ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective air travel.
Mubadala’s Momentum
Airbus and Mubadala Investment Company penned an agreement offering Emirati engineering students internships at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France. Over three years, 12 students will receive mentorship from Airbus experts. Fatima Al Marzooqi of Mubadala expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, aiming to fortify the UAE’s knowledge-based economy. Airbus’ Mikail Houari highlighted commitment to nurturing regional talent for long-term industry growth.
MAC JEE Munition
The MAC JEE Group, renowned for MK and BLU aerial ammunition, premiered the ANSHAR kamikaze drone. This innovative loitering ammunition, from Brazil, redefines modern warfare with its payload, autonomy, range, and speed. MAC JEE showcased rocket launchers, training solutions, and guidance kits, reinforcing its Air Force product line.
ELT’s Shielding Solution
For over 70 years, ELT Group has prioritised innovation, solidifying its dominance in electromagnetic spectrum management. This commitment extends to TENET 2030, amplifying expertise in defence and adjacent sectors like biodefense. E4Shield, a Made-in-Italy technology, harnesses electromagnetic waves to neutralize airborne pathogens harmlessly, advancing beyond viruses to anticipate future biothreats with AI/ML-enabled upgrades.
Calidus’ Commitment
Tawazun Council unveiled the UAE Air Force and Air Defence Command’s plan to acquire 40 B-250T trainer aircraft from Calidus Aerospace for aviation training. Faris Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Calidus LLC’s Chairman, praised the UAE’s defence industry growth. Tawazun Council’s CEO, Muammar Abdulla Abushehab, highlighted the UAE’s expanding defence sector and commitment to innovation. Calidus Aerospace’s CEO, Khalifa Al Balushi, thanked the leadership for their confidence in Emirati expertise.
Crisalion Carriers
Crisalion Mobility made its debut at the show, introducing its new eVTOL, INTEGRITY. The company announced a strategic partnership with VALTRANS Transportation Systems at the event, appointing VALTRANS as the exclusive distributor of its air and ground solutions in the Gulf region. INTEGRITY, developed using Crisalion’s patented FlyFree technology, was designed for diverse applications like urban air mobility, emergency medical services, cargo transport, and tourism.
Akaer Advancements
Akaer, a Brazilian aerospace firm, spotlighted its diverse portfolio at the show, showcasing tech for civil and military aircraft, UAVs, ground vehicles, satellite cameras, and missile systems. Akaer contributed to the Hürjet fighter’s structural design, partnered on the KC-390 cargo ship, and aided Gripen E fighter development, aiming to bolster global recognition.
Looking Ahead
The Dubai Airshow 2023 concluded on a positive note, reaffirming the industry’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation. The event demonstrated that the aviation, aerospace, and defence industries are well-positioned for continued growth and success in the years to come. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as the organisers gear up for the next edition in 2025 at Dubai World Central (DWC), where the journey towards a brighter future for aviation will continue.
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