Airbus is anticipating the manufacturing of components for a substantial fleet of A400M aircraft in the UAE, as stated by Gabriel Semelas, President Africa and Middle East at Airbus. This initiative will play a crucial role in integrating UAE-based firms, including EPI and Strata, into the international supply chain, he informed WAM.
Airbus is crafting plans to set up maintenance and overhaul facilities for the A400M aircraft, which serves as a multi-role military transport aircraft. Additionally, a training center is part of these plans, which will help boost the UAE’s standing as a regional hub of excellence in the aviation industry, he added.
Commitment to local competencies and partnerships
Semelas emphasized Airbus’ dedication to promoting local competencies through training and technical assistance programs, along with research collaborations that aid in developing future industries within the UAE. He clarified that creating job opportunities and enhancing skills are fundamental pillars of their strategy to localize the industry.
Contribution to the UAE’s industrial strategy
Airbus not only delivers products and services but also plays a significant role in advancing the UAE’s ambitious industrial strategy, such as the “300 Billion Project,” by investing in cutting-edge manufacturing and nurturing national talent. This ultimately strengthens the country’s reputation as a global hub for future industries, Semelas remarked.
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Expanding cooperation in aerospace and defense
He underscored the company’s commitment to broadening its collaboration with the UAE in the areas of aerospace and defense. Semelas observed that Airbus has maintained a robust presence in the Middle East for over 40 years, significantly contributing to the sector’s development through strategic partnerships, including cooperation with EPI in the UAE. This partnership saw enhancements to the C295 aircraft’s capabilities by integrating an additional removable fuel tank, enabling it to execute new missions, such as air-to-air refueling.
In the realm of aircraft structure manufacturing, Strata, a subsidiary of Mubadala, has consistently supplied Airbus with essential components for its wide-body aircraft, including the A350, for more than 15 years. This collaboration enhances the UAE’s status as a key global supplier in this sector.
He further explained that EPI, an EDGE company, plays a crucial role in fabricating key components for the A320 and A330 aircraft as the nation gradually transitions towards defense manufacturing. He regarded this collaboration as a testament to the UAE’s expanding role in Airbus’ global defense supply chain, aligning with the goals of the Tawazun Council and the UAE’s industrial strategy.
