In a first for the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, their respective defense industry conglomerates signed a deal to produce the four-wheel drive JAIS vehicle, developed by Emirate firm Nimr, in Saudi Arabia.
Negotiations between Edge Group subsidiary NIMR and Saudi Arabian Military Industries were ongoing for some time over the terms of a potential partnership — the teaming agreement that encapsulates the latest deal. The production plan was finalized during the International Defence Exhibition and Conference, taking place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from Feb. 21-25.
Designed to lay the foundation for a long-term joint venture between the two entities, the agreement mandates NIMR license technology to Saudi Arabia so the kingdom’s industry can manufacture the JAIS vehicle and further develop its supply chain.
JAIS is a mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle that touts a so-called crew citadel protection system to safeguard against mines, improvised explosive devices and ballistic threats. The JAIS was selected for production in Saudi Arabia after facing off against other vehicles in a competition run by SAMI and Saudi military experts.