The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will possibly emerge as an exporter of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) during 2009. This is according to the Riad Kahwaji, CEO of the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis (Inegma).

The exports will be part of the country's ambition to become self-reliant in the defence sector. The UAE launched a company to focus specifically on UAVs in February 2007. The company, called Abu Dhabi UAV Investment Company (Audic), aimed to achieve capabilities to design, manufacture and provide services for any type of UAV, fixed wing, and VTOL (vertical take off and landing) vehicles. Audic is collaborating with companies from Sweden, Germany, and South Korea for its project. In coming years, 'Made in UAE' defence equipment will compete for markets in Africa, the GCC, and in the other countries in the Middle East. Besides, the UAE may also emerge as a center for manufacture and overhaul of defence equipment, Kahwaji said.

(Source: Emirates Business 24/7)