Milrem Robotics, EM&E Group, and Thales in Belgium have formalised a strategic partnership to enhance the United Arab Emirates’ defence capabilities. The collaboration aims to integrate advanced weapon systems into unmanned ground vehicles, addressing the nation’s evolving security needs.
The Memorandum of Understanding , signed on 18 February 2025 in Abu Dhabi, outlines a framework for joint innovation and the integration of robotics capabilities. A primary objective is the incorporation of EM&E Group’s SECUTOR Remote Weapon Station and Thales’ 70mm rocket systems into Milrem Robotics’ THeMIS modular unmanned ground vehicle. This integration seeks to enhance the platform’s versatility, particularly in countering unmanned aerial systems .
The THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle, developed by Estonia-based Milrem Robotics, is renowned for its modular design, allowing for various payloads to be integrated based on mission requirements. The planned enhancement with EM&E’s SECUTOR Remote Weapon Station and Thales’ rocket systems is expected to bolster its operational effectiveness in diverse combat scenarios.
EM&E Group, a defence technology provider, brings to the partnership its expertise in remote weapon systems. The SECUTOR Remote Weapon Station is designed for precision targeting and can be equipped with a range of weaponry, making it a versatile solution for modern combat needs.
Thales in Belgium, a subsidiary of the global technology leader Thales Group, contributes its advanced 70mm rocket systems to the collaboration. These rocket systems are known for their reliability and effectiveness in various defence applications, including air-to-ground and ground-to-ground missions.
The integrated system is slated for display by the EDGE Group at the International Defence Exhibition 2025, scheduled from 17 to 21 February in Abu Dhabi. IDEX is a premier defence exhibition in the Middle East, providing a platform for showcasing the latest technology across land, sea, and air sectors of defence.
Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, emphasised the significance of the partnership, stating that the collaboration aims to leverage combined technological strengths to address the evolving needs for robotic systems and to build efficient defence capabilities. He highlighted the shared vision of driving innovation, strengthening regional security, and contributing to the UAE’s defence and technological advancements.
Alain Quevrin, CEO of Thales in Belgium, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that the partnership brings together cutting-edge technologies to meet defence challenges in an increasingly complex global environment. He underscored the alignment of this initiative with the UAE’s vision for innovation in defence and security.
Javier Escribano, President of EM&E Group, highlighted the honour of participating in the strategic project, which combines the necessary capabilities and technologies for developing advanced systems like the SECUTOR Rocket. He pointed out that the agreement reflects a shared commitment to addressing the dynamic needs of the defence sector.
The MoU also outlines potential avenues for future collaborative development projects, aiming to combine the expertise of all three parties to advance cutting-edge defence solutions. This initiative is poised to contribute significantly to the UAE’s defence infrastructure, aligning with the nation’s strategic objectives of enhancing its technological and defence prowess.
The UAE has been actively investing in advanced defence technologies to bolster its national security and maintain regional stability. Collaborations such as this one are indicative of the country’s commitment to integrating state-of-the-art solutions into its defence strategy.
The partnership between Milrem Robotics, EM&E Group, and Thales in Belgium exemplifies a concerted effort to bring together international expertise to address specific defence requirements. By focusing on the integration of advanced weapon systems into unmanned platforms, the collaboration aims to provide the UAE with enhanced capabilities to counter emerging threats, particularly those posed by unmanned aerial systems.