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EDGE and SAMI: a comparison of the Gulf's defence champions

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  • Albert Vidal Ribe

Abstract

The emergence of EDGE in the UAE and SAMI in Saudi Arabia marks a shift in the region’s defence industrial landscape. Whilst both are state-backed national champions that rely on joint ventures with foreign firms, they diverge in size, growth strategies, market focus, and partnerships. This paper traces their development—examining workforce size, contract backlog, product portfolios, and international deals—and compares them across four dimensions: use of defence shows and social media as marketing tools, growth strategy, market focus, and networks of partners. It finds that EDGE remains larger and more capable of managing complex projects, though SAMI may have greater long-term potential; EDGE prioritises exports, whilst SAMI focuses on domestic needs; EDGE has a more diversified set of partners, whereas SAMI mostly engages Western firms; and EDGE pursues targeted international acquisitions, whilst SAMI emphasises building large facilities locally. The paper then explores the implications of these divergent models.

Suggested Citation

  • Albert Vidal Ribe, 2025. "EDGE and SAMI: a comparison of the Gulf's defence champions," Defense & Security Analysis, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 41(4), pages 625-645, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:cdanxx:v:41:y:2025:i:4:p:625-645
    DOI: 10.1080/14751798.2025.2549197
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