EDGE Kuwait naval deal sets a regional record as Abu Dhabi’s EDGE Group secures a landmark $2.45 billion (AED 9 billion) defence contract with the Kuwait Ministry of Defence. This historic agreement covers the supply of FALAJ 3-class 62-metre missile boats and is the largest naval shipbuilding export in the Middle East, ranking among the top global naval export deals.
As the prime contractor, EDGE will oversee the design, construction, testing, and delivery of the vessels, along with Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) and In-Service Support (ISS). Ammunition supply is also included, showcasing EDGE’s comprehensive defence capabilities.
Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), the naval arm of EDGE and the UAE’s top shipbuilder, will serve as the build subcontractor.
Stronger Regional Defence Ties
Hamad Al Marar, EDGE Group CEO, commented:
“This agreement not only deepens strategic defence relations between the UAE and Kuwait, but also signals strong global confidence in EDGE’s ability to deliver cutting-edge naval platforms. It positions us firmly as a global leader in naval defence exports.”
The FALAJ 3-class vessels have already proven successful in the UAE Navy. The first ship, ALTAF, was commissioned in February 2025, reflecting the design’s operational readiness. These missile boats are now being customized for Kuwait’s coastal defence, featuring high performance, advanced combat systems, and robust capabilities for littoral warfare.
Driving UAE’s Defence Export Vision
This milestone deal underlines EDGE’s commitment to export-led growth and delivering turnkey defence solutions on a global scale. It also supports the UAE’s broader strategy to advance its defence industry and foster international industrial collaboration.