ع
Leonardo DRS Inc. announced on August 6, 2026, that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with Space42 to advance next-generation C5ISR mission systems for UAE national security. The agreement creates a framework to merge the American company’s advanced mission systems with the UAE entity’s satellite infrastructure. This move is intended to enhance sovereign capabilities in an increasingly complex security landscape according to the statement.
According to the Leonardo DRS statement, the company will bring its expertise in C5ISR systems to the collaboration while Space42 will supply secure AI-enabled satellite communications and beyond line of sight connectivity. The integrated solution aims to provide robust support for national security operations across the UAE. Both parties see the partnership as a way to address current and future threat environments effectively.
Denny Crumley, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit, said in the statement, “This MoU marks a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting UAE national security priorities with proven, advanced integrated capabilities that enable mission success in today’s evolving threat landscape.” The executive emphasized the alignment with UAE priorities. This reflects the company’s strategy for international cooperation in defense technology.
Space42 is a UAE-based, AI-powered SpaceTech company with global reach that is listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, according to details from Mubadala. It was established in 2024 following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat and its satellite fleet covers more than 150 countries and 80 percent of the world’s population. The company comprises two business units, Yahsat Space Services and Bayanat Smart Solutions, that focus on satellite communications, geospatial insights and artificial intelligence.
Leonardo DRS is a Nasdaq-listed provider of defense technologies with a focus on delivering mission-critical systems to armed forces, the statement noted. A Mordor Intelligence report projected the global C5ISR market to grow from 10.95 billion dollars in 2026 to 19.51 billion dollars by 2031 at a CAGR of 12.23 percent. Industry analyses place the UAE’s defense budget for 2026 at approximately 27 billion dollars, underscoring the country’s investment in such advanced capabilities.
The partnership builds on Space42’s expertise in space technology and Leonardo DRS’s established track record in electronics and systems integration. No immediate details on potential contract values or specific project timelines were released in the announcement. The development highlights continued interest in collaborative ventures that promote technology transfer and local capacity building in the defense sector.
