SHAKE ON IT The agreement to join forces was made last year
Saudi Arabia-based electronics, optronics, communication, unmanned aerial systems and related services provider Intra Defense Technologies and South Africa-based precision optronic solutions supplier Hensoldt Optronics, have signed an exclusive partner agreement for the joint development and future co-production of next generation airborne electro-optic systems.
With a view to develop new generation electro-optical (EO) systems for airborne platforms, the two companies signed the agreement in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The agreement provides for the co-development of a new high-performance airborne surveillance and targeting system that is typically deployed on platforms requiring very long stand-off ranges. This includes medium and high-altitude long unmanned aerial vehicles and high altitude surveillance aircraft.
The systems can also be used on platforms such as helicopters and aerostats.
“Intra Defense Technologies is our exclusive partner in Saudi Arabia on all airborne EO systems,” explains Hensoldt South Africa MD Rynier van der Watt.
“We have a long-standing relationship, which has enabled Intra Defense Technologies to successfully manage and support our commitments in Saudi Arabia in terms of EO systems, including all necessary technical and support services.”
The agreement is focused both on joint development and future co-production of the new-generation airborne product.
“This technologically advanced product will be in support of Saudi Arabia’s 2030 local industrial development strategy,” says Intra Defense Technologies president Salman Alshathri.
According to Van der Watt, the new airborne gimbal will be a local Saudi Arabian product, free from third-party government export restrictions. While designed for specific applications in the Gulf and Middle East region, the product allows both companies to position themselves for future programmes in their own specific markets.