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2024-01-06

EDEX 2023: Defence Titans Unleash Tech Prowess

Over 400 defence and security companies from 46 nations recently descended upon the Egypt International Exhibition Centre for EDEX 2023, the region’s premier showcase of military innovation. Held from December 4 to 7, the event’s 22 pavilions buzzed with activity as 35,000 visitors, including high-level military delegations from over 100 countries, explored cutting-edge technologies and equipment.

President Abdel Fattah al Sisi attended the inauguration ceremony.

The show was organised by Arabian World Events in cooperation with Egypt’s Ministry of Defence and Military Production, and the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation (AOI).

The exhibition also featured live demonstrations, seminars and conferences on various topics related to the defence industry.

During the inauguration, Sisi remotely launched the Egyptian frigate “Al Jabbar” via video conference.

Commander of the Egyptian Navy Rear Admiral Ashraf Atwa mentioned that the new frigate launching came as part of directives of President Sisi to give special attention to the manufacturing of naval units inside the Egyptian Navy Arsenal. Atwa added that three frigates had already been finalised in cooperation with the French side.

Anti-drone Capabilities

Egypt showcased its anti-drone capabilities through the DJ-400 system, capable of jamming mini- and micro-UAVs up to four kilometres away. Crafted by the state-owned AOI, this system is set for Egyptian military deployment soon.

Comprising the vehicle-mounted DJ-400V and portable DJ-400P, both units disrupt drone signals using gallium nitride transistor technology. The DJ-400V offers 360-degree horizontal and 30-degree vertical coverage, customisable for varied protection needs and equipped with monitoring circuits for optimal performance and safety.

The compact DJ-400P, portable in backpacks or suitcases, jams drones within a two-kilometre range using directional antennas, with the option to integrate passive radar stations for enhanced detection.

Designed for all weather conditions (-10 to +55 degrees Celsius), the system secures critical facilities and high-profile events vulnerable to drone threats.

AOI’s Technological Showcase

The AOI wrapped up its successful showcase at EDEX 2023, displaying an array of cutting-edge defence technologies and products. AOI spotlighted ammunition, missiles, electronic equipment, and aircraft at the event.

The highlight was the launch of five pioneering products:

Hafez Air-Dropped Bombs: These bombs, developed with the Egyptian Air Force, weigh up to 2,000 pounds and penetrate 180 centimetres of reinforced concrete, meeting evolving airpower needs.

Mobile Command and Control Center: An entirely Egyptian-designed and manufactured centre, automating military operations and securing airspace, borders, and critical infrastructure, advancing AOI’s local defence production goals.

Qadar-1 Armoured Riot Control Vehicle: Offering B4-level protection against 7.62x39mm rounds, equipped with a water cannon, tear gas launchers, and a remote-controlled weapons station, tailored for the Egyptian Ministry of Interior.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Countermeasure System: This system was developed in collaboration with the Egyptian Air Defence Command and the Electronic Warfare Administration. It can detect and counter UAVs at the tactical level, helping to protect Egyptian forces from these increasingly sophisticated threats.

New Egyptian Radiation Detection and Measurement Device: This device is the first of its kind to be manufactured in Egypt. It is designed to detect and measure radiation levels, making it a valuable tool for the Egyptian military and other government agencies.

AOI’s presence at the show underscored its commitment to innovation and self-sufficiency in defence production.

Armoured Ambulance

AOI also unveiled the Fahd 300-MD armoured ambulance at the show. Derived from the original Fahd, it upgrades with a Tatra chassis and Cummins engine, enhancing mobility, reaching 105 km/h, and spanning 700 km.

Featuring a V-shaped hull and advanced armour, it fortifies defence against threats and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Powered by a Cummins ISBe2 300 diesel engine, the ambulance measures 6.55m x 2.6m x 2.6m, weighs 17 tonnes, and carries a three-tonne payload. Accommodating a driver, two medics, and 2-4 patients, it hits 100 km/h on roads, 65 km/h off-road, with a 700 km road range and 500 km off-road, mastering obstacles and trenches with ease.

Sena 200 IFV

Egypt unveiled locally-made Sena 200 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). Evolved from the BMP-1, it boasts Level 4 ballistic and Level 3 mine protection, addressing prior vulnerabilities. Featuring nets countering grenades and energy-absorbing seats, it mitigates blast effects on personnel.

Designed for a driver, commander, and six troops, it offers a digital cockpit, night vision compatibility, and a Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS). Weighing 14 tonnes, 6.1m long, 3.04m wide, and 1.88m high without armament, it reaches 65 km/h on roads and 45 km/h off-road. Its versatility was showcased in three configurations at exhibitions, notably at EDEX 2023 with the Eagle 1 RCWS, offering weapon adaptability from 5.56mm to 14.5mm calibres.

UAE’s Strong Presence

The Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC) coordinated the UAE National Pavilion at EDEX 2023, partnering as the Exhibition’s Strategic Defence Partner.

Nine prominent EDCC members, including EDGE, Yahsat, GAL-AMMROC, National Factory for Safety and Security Products LLC, and Al Seer Marine Supplies Equipment Company, were showcased at the UAE National Pavilion. Also featured were entities like Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED), Nation Shield and Al-Jundi, official journals of the UAE Armed Forces, and Capital Events, promoting the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2025).

Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, EDCC Chairwoman, emphasised the historical ties between the UAE and Egypt, aiming to strengthen cooperation in various domains, including economy and investment.

The collaboration aimed at fostering progress and meeting both nations’ aspirations through strategic partnerships, with Emirati companies showcasing 50+ defence products known for advanced technologies and global competitiveness.

Several prominent companies took part in the event, including:

EDGE: Fortifying Futures

Utilising top-notch frameworks and Industry 4.0 tech, EDGE showcased its capabilities at the exhibition. Mansour Mohamed AlMulla, Managing Director, highlighted the company’s focus on elevating quality, efficiency, and fostering talent in the technology and defence sectors.

Its primary domains encompass Autonomous Systems, Precision/Smart Weapons, and Electronic Warfare (EW). Notably, it has excelled in drone technology, developing versatile applications from reconnaissance to weaponised drones. In Precision/Smart Weapons, the company is enhancing conventional missiles, while in EW, it has crafted eight products covering interception, jamming, and spoofing technologies, with 12 more under development.

AlMulla emphasised the company’s dedication to critical sectors like Precision Munitions, Autonomous Systems, Naval & Land Systems, Small Arms and Cyber Technologies for future advancement.

Lockheed Partnership

Lockheed Martin significantly expanded its presence at the show, aiming to bolster its footprint in the Middle East and Africa. With a longstanding history in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), this event serves as another avenue to fortify their regional ties.

During EDEX’s inauguration, President Sisi engaged with Lockheed officials, reinforcing the strong rapport between Egypt and the company. Joseph Rank, Chief Executive of Lockheed Martin – Saudi Arabia and Africa, emphasised EDEX’s significance as a crucial platform for engaging with partners across the Middle East and Africa.

Lockheed Martin’s primary focus in Egypt lies in the strategic upgrade plan for the North African nation’s F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet. Renewed discussions between Egypt and Lockheed Martin centered on enhancing the capabilities of the Egyptian Air Force’s F-16 fleet.

The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) has operated versions of the Hercules since 1976, when the first of a batch of 20 C-130Hs was delivered.

Naval Collaboration

Renowned for its expertise in designing, producing, integrating, and supporting submarines and surface ships, Naval Group seeks to enhance the Egyptian fleet not just by adding new vessels but also by proposing long-term collaboration in training and maintaining existing ships.

Yonec Fihey, Naval Group’s Marketing Director for Surface Ships, emphasised the company’s enduring relationship with the Egyptian Navy, showcasing the Belharra class (known internationally as the FDI frigate) as the highlight.

The FDI frigate, a 4,000-tonne multi-mission vessel, bridges the gap between the Gowind corvette and FREMM, offering advanced technology in weaponry, electronic warfare, air defence, and cyber security. With features like digital architecture, cyber security measures, improved weapon systems, and designated space for UAVs and heavy helicopters, Naval Group aims to modernise the Egyptian Navy’s capabilities.

The frigate, equipped with Thales Sea Fire radar, Kingklip Mark 1115 hull sonar, and CAPTAS-4 towed sonar, presents a comprehensive solution for Egypt’s maritime defence needs.

Rosoboronexport Finale

Rosoboronexport concluded its 2023 exhibition circuit at EDEX 2023 in Cairo. Participating in 16 global exhibitions, the company highlighted EDEX as vital for African defence, with active engagements in 80 per cent of regional countries. African exports surged, comprising over 30 per cent of Rosoboronexport’s global supplies, set to exceed US$ 5.2 billion by year-end.

Director General Alexander Mikheev emphasised aligning with Russia-Africa Summit initiatives and advancing agreements from Dubai Airshow 2023 at EDEX 2023. The exhibit featured cutting-edge Russian military assets — aircraft, armoured vehicles, missile systems, naval products, UAVs, and cyber and counter-terrorism equipment.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to addressing Africa’s security challenges, actively pursuing agreements on cyber security, space programmes, and counter-terrorism strategies with regional countries.

Thales TopAxyz IMU

Thales, a global defence leader, showcased its TopAxyz Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). This high-performance navigation solution is built to withstand the harshest military environments and meet the toughest mission demands.

Whether guiding missiles through enemy lines, piloting drones in treacherous terrain, or navigating submarines in the deep, TopAxyz delivers pinpoint accuracy and unwavering reliability. Its advanced ring laser gyro technology ensures minimal drift, while its compact design integrates seamlessly into various platforms.

With TopAxyz, Thales empowers militaries with the precision and confidence to conquer any battlefield.

MBDA’s Tech Display

MBDA exhibited advanced defence tech with the Egyptian Armed Forces. Showcasing the Akeron family, including fifth-gen tactical combat missiles, highlighted MBDA’s precision in complex scenarios. Their operational capabilities addressed evolving threats.

MBDA presented air defence systems, featuring the Aster family, the upcoming Aster 30 B1NT, VL Mica NG, and introduced Expendable Remote Carriers (ERC) for future air-combat capabilities.

In naval technology, MBDA unveiled the operational Marte ER, alongside Exocet 40 Block 3 C and Otomat. The Marte ER, a third-generation lightweight, long-range anti-ship missile, offers over 100 km range and adaptable deployment across naval units and various platforms.

Marching Forward

EDEX 2023 served as a powerful demonstration of Egypt’s military modernisation efforts. From showcasing domestically developed technologies like the Al Jabbar frigate and Sena 200 IFV to securing partnerships with global leaders like Lockheed Martin and Thales, Egypt cemented its position as a major player in the international defence arena.

The event also underscored its commitment to self-reliance in defence production, with the AOI showcasing a range of powerful weaponry.

No wonder, anticipation is already surging for the upcoming 4th edition of Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX), slated for December 1-4, 2025, promising another exciting chapter in defence innovation and international collaboration.

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