EDGE and Lockheed to explore collaboration in aerospace and defence

EPI, a subsidiary of EDGE and a key player in precision engineering across the UAE’s aerospace, oil and gas and defence industries, has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Lockheed Martin. The agreement aims to explore new opportunities to enhance the UAE’s industrial sector, strengthen its national defence capabilities, and promote self-sufficiency in critical defence domains.

The LoI was signed during the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) 2025, taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from February 17 to 21. Michael Deshaies, CEO of EPI, and John S. Clark, Vice President of Business Development at Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control division, formalised the agreement in the presence of Khaled Al Zaabi, President of EDGE’s Platforms and Systems cluster.

Under the LoI, EPI and Lockheed Martin will explore areas of opportunities to strengthen EPI’s commitment to support the UAE’s industrial growth, national defence capabilities and self-sufficiency in significant defence domains.

Speaking on the synergy, Michael Deshaies said: “Part of our core strategy at EPI is to explore mutually beneficial partnerships to drive the diversification of our operations and join forces with key players in aerospace and defence, in line with our commitment to excellence and innovation. Also aligned with EDGE’s mission to localise trailblazing technologies and industrial capabilities, we are well on track to strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading competitive industrial centre in various sectors.”

John Clark added: “Lockheed Martin is proud to work alongside EPI to foster innovation, strengthen local industry, and advance the UAE’s long-term defence capabilities. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge technologies and building a sustainable industrial base in the region.”