UAE’s Edge Expands into Space with New Satellite Solutions Company

EDGE Launches Fada to Manufacture Earth Observation Satellites in UAE

UAE’s defense conglomerate EDGE is launching a new aerospace company that will manufacture and assemble Earth observation satellites, as well as provide cyber security solutions.

The company, known as Fada, which translates to Space in Arabic, builds the United Arab Emirates Space Agency’s Chirp constellation, a group of radar imaging satellites.

Edge, which specializes in autonomous systems, cyber security and weaponry for the military and civilian sectors, was awarded the contract by the space agency last year.

Walid Al Mesmari, head of space and cyber technologies at Edge, told The National that Fada will complete the first satellite for launch in 2026.

“The main idea here is to focus on a one-stop shop. The company will provide geospatial monitoring services that will help in many civil applications such as urban planning, emergency response or monitoring land vegetation,” he said.

Our focus is on creating a platform for technological advancement through FADA, which includes developing national talent to retain engineering skills in the UAE.”

Earth observation and cyber security
This expansion into aerospace technologies marks a significant milestone for Edge as it seeks to diversify its product portfolio and dive into the rapidly expanding global aerospace industry.

In 2022, the global geo-monitoring market was valued at $3.5 billion and is projected to reach $6.4 billion by 2032, according to India-based Allied Market Research.

The UAE Space Agency is working hard to create a robust private space industry that will boost the nation’s economy, encourage innovation, and create jobs.

“The idea here is to create healthy competition in the private space industry, where each participant complements each other and contributes to building a strong space environment,” Al Mesmari stated.

For example, Bayanat and Yahsad both oversee satellite operations and data in the Chirp constellation, although Fada constructs it.

Integrating cybersecurity solutions into satellite systems is one of FADA’s distinctive offerings.

Satellite cyber security is rising to the top of the priority list for governments and commercial space enterprises in an era of increased geopolitical tensions and growing cyber threats.

New satellite manufacturing facility
FADA’s operations will be carried out at a new facility in Abu Dhabi dedicated to satellite manufacturing, assembly, integration and testing.

The factory can support satellites’ sub-systems such as power and communications, and provides a one-stop shop for customers looking to build satellites.

Artificial Aperture Radar – Fada can already support some satellites such as the UAE Space Agency, optical imaging satellites and infrared payloads, as well as radar imaging satellites being developed for satellite cyber security and defense services.

The factory, which is currently in the design phase, is also expected to help create employment opportunities in the country.

“[The facility] will enable us to acquire a stable technical engineering and aerospace capabilities that will develop a high-value workforce in the UAE space industry,” said Mr Al Mesmari.