Space42, the UAE’s AI-powered space technology company, and EDGE Group, one of the world’s leading advanced technology and defence organisations, have announced a strategic satellite communications (SATCOM) manufacturing alliance at Dubai Airshow 2025.
The partnership between Space42 and EDGE’s secure communications arm, KATIM, establishes a sovereign SATCOM hardware capability in the UAE, covering antenna systems, secure waveforms, and cryptographic technologies.
The alliance aims to deliver integrated, secure SATCOM solutions for defence, government, and commercial applications while ensuring that key technologies remain under national control.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, said the collaboration marked “a significant milestone in establishing the UAE’s sovereign space and communications infrastructure.” He said the partnership would combine Space42’s satellite operations and manufacturing capabilities with EDGE’s secure communications expertise to create an “integrated national capability” serving strategic and commercial needs.
Waleid Al Mesmari, President of Space & Cyber Technologies at EDGE Group, said the alliance underlined EDGE’s commitment to advancing the UAE’s technological independence. “Together, we are establishing a comprehensive SATCOM ecosystem that positions the UAE as a global leader in secure satellite communications,” he said.
Under the agreement, Space42 will focus on manufacturing and integrating SATCOM antenna systems, including electronically steered arrays for airborne and mobile platforms. EDGE, through KATIM, will provide advanced modem technologies and cryptographic solutions, including post-quantum resistant encryption for mission-critical communications.
Space42 combines over 60 years of satellite heritage from Yahsat and Bayanat and operates the Al Yah satellite fleet, which provides secure communications across multiple continents. The company recently signed an AED18.7 billion (US$5.1 billion) agreement with the UAE Government for extended satellite services and launched the Thuraya-4 satellite in early 2025.
EDGE brings secure communications expertise through KATIM, the UAE’s leading provider of encrypted devices and cryptographic systems, and through FADA, which develops satellite subsystems and cybersecurity technologies.
Aligned with the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030, the alliance will strengthen national security, enable technology transfer, and support the nation’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.
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