IDEX And NAVDEX Day 4 Highlights
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, the fourth day of IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 concluded, reaffirming its status as the world’s premier platform for defence and security innovation. Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council, the event witnessed major high-value deals between leading local and international defence manufacturers, reinforcing its role as a global hub for defence collaboration and technology advancement.
At NAVDEX 2025, His Excellency Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, inaugurated the ‘AlFares’, a Swift Trooper 20m vessel commissioned for the UAE Navy. Designed for high-speed operations, the vessel can reach speeds exceeding 45 knots and is equipped with advanced armaments, including the 12.7mm ASELSAN STAMP system. The unveiling of the vessel underscores the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities through cutting-edge naval technology.
During a press conference held by Tawazun Council, 12 new deals worth AED 3.77 billion were announced on behalf of the UAE Ministry of Defence and security agencies. This brings the total number of contracts signed over the first four days to 40 deals, amounting to AED 23.72 billion. The announcements reflect the event’s role as a key driver of global defence investments and strategic partnerships.
The IDEX Next_Gen Competition concluded with the announcement of this year’s winners, recognizing the most pioneering defence and security startups. Sinaha Technology secured first place, followed by Crescent Aerospace Aircraft Spare Parts and Components Trading LLC in second place, and Broswarm in third. The awards were presented by Saeed Al Mansoori, Advisor for Defence Exhibitions at ADNEC Group, and Mona Al Jaber, Chairwoman of the Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC).
Following a rigorous evaluation by an esteemed panel of industry experts, Sinaha Technology secured the top prize for its suite of autonomous solutions, including Robotruck, UAV-based services, and remote control systems. The judging criteria included ideation, commercialization, communication, team structure, and market potential, highlighting the competition’s role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence sector.
The IDEX and NAVDEX Talks featured insightful discussions, bringing together experts from the defence, energy, and technology sectors. The session on “Sustainable Energy Solutions for a Resilient Defence Sector” explored the role of clean energy in military operations, emphasizing its strategic, economic, and operational benefits. Another key discussion, “Response and Recovery in CBRN Scenarios: Building Resilience Through Preparedness and Coordination,” underscored the critical need for continuous training, interagency collaboration, and industry innovation to enhance resilience in military and civilian settings. Dr. Katrina Sanders of Aspen highlighted the challenges of CBRN response, particularly the decline in training programs over the past decade and the complexity of coordinating multi-agency crisis responses.
NAVDEX 2025 also hosted a session featuring PT PAL Indonesia, which highlighted its extensive naval shipbuilding expertise and commitment to Maritime Industry 4.0. The discussion showcased how the company is integrating big data, AI, and ERP systems to optimize production and reduce operational timelines. Another key session on geopolitics and global supply chains emphasized the strategic significance of maritime trade routes and resource control, highlighting how global supply chains influence geopolitical dynamics.
As IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 continues, the event remains a powerful catalyst for global defence partnerships, innovation, and the future of security solutions.
