Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense, and Fadel Al Kaabi, CEO of International Golden Group (IGG), have inaugurated the new Vision for Optronics & Navigation facility at Tawazun Industrial Park, Abu Dhabi. This milestone reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the two companies and establishes a center of excellence for advanced military technology in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The new facility will focus on research, development, and production of critical military equipment, including airborne, land, and maritime optronics and inertial navigation systems. By providing fast and efficient local support, the center will help enhance the operational readiness of the UAE Armed Forces.
“The opening of this site marks a key step in our strategic partnership with IGG,” said Franck Saudo, CEO of Safran Electronics & Defense. “This center of excellence reflects our commitment to delivering advanced technological solutions and local support, strengthening sovereignty and operational superiority for our regional partners.”
Spanning over 800 square meters (8,600 sq. ft.), the facility is equipped with modern cleanrooms and advanced industrial systems. It will also create highly skilled job opportunities, driving local economic development and reinforcing the UAE’s defense industrial base. Currently, Vision for Optronics & Navigation is providing local maintenance and support for the sighting systems used in the UAE Army’s Leclerc tanks and armored vehicles.
The establishment of Vision aligns with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, focusing on technology transfer and local industrial growth. Through this joint venture, Safran and IGG are committed to co-developing and adapting defense systems with the latest innovations to meet specific regional needs.
By fostering local expertise, strategic defense capabilities, and cutting-edge technology, Vision for Optronics & Navigation is set to play a vital role in supporting the UAE’s defense sector and strengthening partnerships within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Safran is a global high-technology group specializing in aviation, defense, and space. The company focuses on making air travel safer, more sustainable, and more accessible through its expertise in propulsion, equipment, and interiors. With a workforce of 76,800 employees, Safran achieved sales of €15.3 billion in 2021. It holds leading positions in its core markets, either independently or through strategic partnerships. The company is committed to advancing research and development to support its innovation roadmap and environmental priorities.
Listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange, Safran is a key component of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices. Its subsidiary, Safran Electronics & Defense, is a global leader in optronics, avionics, electronics, and critical software solutions for both civilian and military applications. The company’s cutting-edge technologies are integrated into over 1,000 ships, 25,000 land vehicles, and 10,000 aircraft worldwide, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner in the defense and aerospace sectors.
