With Saudi and UAE deals, Spain's defense industry seizes Gulf expansion
This partnership reflects a broader trend of strategic alignment between Gulf states’ economic and security objectives and Spain’s technological expertise especially in the naval sector.
Spain’s defense industry is increasingly playing the role of key partner for Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, seeking to modernize their navies and enhance domestic defense capabilities.
Two recent milestones underscore this growing collaboration: on Dec. 18, the UAE's defense giant, EDGE Group, and the Spanish world-leading information technology and defense systems company Indra Sistemas announced the formalization of PULSE, a joint venture dedicated to designing and manufacturing advanced radar systems. Just days earlier, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) inked a new contract with Spain's Navantia to supply three additional Avante 2200 corvettes, identical to the units already in service with the Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF).
These agreements highlight Spain's ability to leverage its advanced technological expertise — particularly in the naval sector — to meet the ambitious defense goals of Arab Gulf states and align closely with both countries' visions to prioritize defense localization, economic diversification and drive for innovation.
Saudi’s quest for modernization and diversification
