In recent years, the UAE’s EDGE Group has emerged as a formidable player in the global defense industry. With a strategic focus on innovation and international partnerships, EDGE has significantly expanded its footprint beyond the Middle East. Notably, the group’s ventures in Brazil and Switzerland underscore its commitment to fostering technological autonomy and strengthening defense capabilities on a global scale.
Establishing a Presence in Brazil
EDGE’s foray into the Latin American market began in 2023 with the acquisition of a 50% stake in SIATT, a Brazilian company specializing in smart weapons and defense systems. This move marked EDGE’s first investment in Brazil and laid the foundation for subsequent expansions.
In September 2024, EDGE inaugurated a state-of-the-art 6,000 square meter headquarters and production facility for SIATT in São José dos Campos, São Paulo. This facility is designed to enhance research and development capabilities, as well as production line capacity, supporting the development of advanced military technologies such as the MANSUP anti-ship missile and the SisGAAz coastal surveillance platform.
The expansion is expected to create approximately 200 direct jobs and an additional 600 indirect positions, bolstering local employment in the region. EDGE’s CEO, Hamad Al Marar, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “This was our first investment in Brazil, back in 2023, and since then we have expanded significantly from a research and development plant to an impressive industrial plant. This reflects SIATT’s commitment to advancing Brazil’s technological autonomy and creating long-term value for its defense industry.”
Strengthening Ties with the Brazilian Navy
EDGE’s collaboration with the Brazilian Navy has been instrumental in advancing defense technologies. In April 2023, EDGE and the Brazilian Navy signed a cooperation agreement to develop anti-ship and supersonic missiles. This partnership was followed by the signing of a strategic agreement positioning EDGE as a long-term partner to the Brazilian Navy, co-investing in the development of advanced solutions, including anti-jamming technology developed by EDGE in the UAE.
Most recently, EDGE and the Brazilian Navy agreed to cooperate on anti-drone systems, fostering an even stronger relationship. These initiatives underscore EDGE’s commitment to enhancing Brazil’s defense capabilities and technological sovereignty.
Expanding Horizons in Switzerland
Simultaneously, EDGE has made significant strides in Europe through its subsidiary, ANAVIA, a Swiss company specializing in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). In November 2023, EDGE acquired a 52% majority stake in ANAVIA, marking a strategic move to bolster its presence in the European defense sector.
In September 2025, ANAVIA inaugurated a new headquarters and unmanned aerial systems prototyping facility in Bilten, Switzerland. This facility serves as ANAVIA’s new headquarters and dedicated R&D center for next-generation unmanned helicopters, advancing both UAE’s and Europe’s capabilities in designing and delivering the latest technology in unmanned rotorcraft.
The Bilten facility complements ANAVIA’s existing production center in Näfels, Switzerland. ANAVIA’s CEO, Jon Andri Jong, highlighted the strategic importance of the dual-hub approach, stating, “As Bilten becomes the nucleus for engineering activities and platform innovation, Näfels will serve as our center for serial production, enabling us to scale with precision and agility.”
Technological Advancements and Innovations
EDGE’s investments in Brazil and Switzerland are not merely infrastructural; they are deeply rooted in technological innovation. In Brazil, the development of the MANSUP anti-ship missile and the SisGAAz coastal surveillance platform exemplify EDGE’s commitment to advancing defense technologies. These systems are designed to enhance Brazil’s maritime security and operational readiness.
In Switzerland, ANAVIA’s focus on next-generation unmanned helicopters, such as the HT-750, underscores EDGE’s dedication to pioneering advancements in unmanned aerial systems. The HT-750 is a versatile vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) system capable of carrying payloads up to 750 kilograms, suitable for various mission profiles, including surveillance, reconnaissance, inspection, mapping, and cargo transport.
These technological advancements not only bolster the defense capabilities of Brazil and Switzerland but also position EDGE as a leader in the development and deployment of cutting-edge defense technologies.
Economic and Strategic Implications
EDGE’s expansions in Brazil and Switzerland have significant economic and strategic implications. The establishment of advanced manufacturing and R&D facilities in these countries contributes to local economies through job creation and technological development. Furthermore, these ventures enhance the defense capabilities of the host nations, fostering stronger bilateral relations and regional stability.
Strategically, EDGE’s global expansions reflect the UAE’s broader defense and foreign policy objectives. By establishing a presence in key regions such as Latin America and Europe, EDGE is positioning the UAE as a proactive contributor to global defense and security initiatives. These partnerships also facilitate knowledge transfer and collaborative innovation, strengthening the UAE’s position in the global defense industry.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects
As EDGE continues to expand its global footprint, the focus remains on fostering innovation, enhancing defense capabilities, and building strategic partnerships. The developments in Brazil and Switzerland serve as models for future expansions into other regions, including Africa and Asia.
The ongoing collaborations with the Brazilian Navy and the advancements in unmanned aerial systems in Switzerland are just the beginning. EDGE’s commitment to technological excellence and international cooperation positions it to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global defense.
In conclusion, EDGE Group’s strategic expansions in Brazil and Switzerland underscore its commitment to innovation, technological advancement, and international collaboration. These initiatives not only enhance the defense capabilities of the host nations but also contribute to global security and stability. As EDGE continues to forge new partnerships and develop cutting-edge technologies, it reaffirms its position as a leader in the global defense industry.
