The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is rapidly becoming a focal point for naval drone technology, attracting vendors from around the globe. This surge is driven by the nation’s strategic investments in autonomous maritime systems, aiming to bolster its naval capabilities amid evolving regional security dynamics. As global defense technology continues to advance, the UAE is seizing the opportunity to enhance its naval fleet with state-of-the-art unmanned systems.
Strategic Shift Towards Autonomous Maritime Systems
Facing manpower constraints with a naval force of approximately 3,000 active personnel, the UAE is prioritizing unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and underwater vehicles (UUVs) to enhance surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations. This strategic move addresses both operational efficiency and the need for advanced maritime security solutions. The reliance on naval drones aligns with a broader global shift in military strategies, where unmanned systems play an increasingly dominant role in modern warfare.
IDEX and NAVDEX 2025: Showcasing Innovation
The International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi served as pivotal platforms for unveiling state-of-the-art naval drone technologies. Several leading defense companies showcased their latest advancements, emphasizing the UAE’s growing influence in the industry.
- Ocean Power Technologies’ WAM-V: Dubbed the “pickup truck” of USVs, this 22-foot vessel offers versatility in deploying various payloads, from anti-submarine warfare sonar to aerial drones. Its prior deployment with the U.S. Navy’s Task Force 59 in Bahrain underscores its operational reliability.
- DV10 Interceptor: A collaborative effort among Abu Dhabi Ship Building, Steer AI, the Technology Innovation Institute, and Edge, the DV10 is a 10.2-meter optionally-manned interceptor. It supports remote weapon stations of varying calibers and boasts swarming capabilities, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to indigenous innovation.
Local Enterprises Leading the Charge
Emirati companies are at the forefront of this technological wave, developing and deploying cutting-edge naval drones.
- Arzanah’s UUVs: At IDEX 2025, Arzanah unveiled two unmanned underwater vehicles:
- Al Kasir: A 3-meter UUV designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, featuring AI-based navigation and a 50-hour endurance.
- Ghawwas: An 11-meter large unmanned underwater combat vehicle equipped with dual propulsion and torpedo launch capabilities, capable of operating at depths yet to be demonstrated.
- Al Seer Marine: This Abu Dhabi-based company has entered into a memorandum of understanding with Milanion to develop unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) under the “Made in UAE” initiative. This collaboration aims to offer customizable solutions for both land and maritime applications, reflecting a commitment to local manufacturing and technological advancement.
International Collaborations and Prospective Deals
The UAE’s focus on autonomous systems has attracted significant international interest. Defense technology companies from around the world are eager to secure deals with the UAE’s armed forces and private sector firms.
- General Atomics’ MQ-9B SeaGuardian: Advanced negotiations are underway between the UAE and General Atomics for the procurement of MQ-9B drones. These drones offer maritime surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, aligning with the UAE’s strategic objectives.
- STM’s Naval Platforms: Turkish defense company STM showcased its naval platforms and tactical mini UAV systems at NAVDEX 2025, highlighting the UAE’s appeal as a market for advanced defense technologies.
Regional Dynamics and the Rise of Naval Drones
The Middle East’s geopolitical landscape has accelerated the adoption of naval drones, with regional actors investing heavily in unmanned systems to enhance their naval strategies.
- Iran’s Drone Warship: Iran recently unveiled the Shahid Beheshti, a drone carrier warship converted from an old cargo vessel. The ship features a 180-meter runway and the capability to launch various drones and unmanned submarines. This development underscores the strategic importance of unmanned maritime systems in regional defense strategies.
- Global Trends: The use of unmanned surface vessels has been pivotal in recent conflicts, with Ukraine employing drone boats against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet and Iranian-backed Houthi rebels using explosive-laden watercraft in the Red Sea. These instances highlight the effectiveness of unmanned systems in modern naval warfare.
The Future of Naval Drone Technology in the UAE
As the UAE continues its aggressive push toward autonomous maritime defense systems, the country is expected to establish itself as a global leader in the field. The integration of AI-driven unmanned vessels, improved sensor technologies, and advanced navigation systems will further enhance the capabilities of the UAE’s naval fleet.
- Indigenous Development: Emirati defense firms are working toward reducing dependence on foreign technologies by investing in homegrown research and development. The UAE government is providing funding and incentives for local companies to innovate in the field of naval drones.
- Expansion of Military Capabilities: With the rapid deployment of naval drones, the UAE is expected to modernize its fleet significantly, making it one of the most advanced maritime forces in the region. The growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare means that the UAE’s investments in these technologies will likely pay off in the long run.
Conclusion
The UAE’s strategic investments and collaborations in naval drone technology position it as a burgeoning hub for autonomous maritime systems. By integrating indigenous innovation with international expertise, the nation is enhancing its naval capabilities to address contemporary security challenges. As the global defense industry continues to evolve, the UAE’s role in shaping the future of naval drone warfare is becoming increasingly prominent. The rapid expansion of the country’s unmanned maritime fleet reflects a broader trend in defense technology, where automation and AI-driven solutions are defining the next generation of military strategies.
With strong government backing, innovative local enterprises, and a thriving defense sector, the UAE is well on its way to becoming a dominant force in the world of naval drones. The coming years will likely see further advancements in this space, solidifying the UAE’s position as a leader in the autonomous naval defense industry.
