Doha, Qatar: Barzan Holdings, the first defence and security company responsible for empowering the military capabilities of the Qatar Armed Forces in the State of Qatar, has successfully signed multiple agreements with leading international defence and security companies around the world. Through these agreements and the creation of joint ventures (JVs) with partner companies, Barzan Holdings is building human and technological capital in Qatar, creating new R&D capabilities in Qatar, and increasing Qatar’s self-sufficiency in defence and security for the benefit of the State and all its citizens.

The signings took place at DIMDEX 2018, where Barzan Holdings officially launched to the public on the first day of the show. Barzan Holdings is a strategic partner of DIMDEX and also the largest exhibitor. Barzan Holding’s launch was well-received by the public, with the Barzan pavilion at DIMDEX attracting heavy traffic and visits from both military and civilian delegates.

Barzan Holdings signed an agreement with Italian company Beretta Holding, to create a JV named “Bindig,” the Qatari word for rifle. The JV is the first time Beretta Holding has established a JV in the Middle East, and Bindig will manufacture pistols and rifles under the Bindig name in Qatar, for use by the Qatar Armed Forces and other security and governmental entities.

Barzan Holdings signed an agreement with Turkish company BMC, that specializes in military vehicles. BMC is a legacy investment of the Qatar Armed Forces, and Barzan Holdings will now manage this relationship in the future.

Barzan Holdings has partnered with major US defence contractor Raytheon to power the Qatar Cyber Academy. The Academy will train Qataris undergoing their national service, and also open its services to the public sector, to better understand cyber security and protect themselves from potential cyber security threats.

Barzan Holdings signed an agreement with Norwegian company Kongsberg, to create a JV called “BK Systems.” BK Systems will specialize in military communications systems, navigations systems and weapons manufacture.

Barzan Holdings signed an agreement with Turkish company Sur International and the Qatar Amiri Guard, to create a JV called “QSur.” QSur will manufacture high-end military uniforms, and uniform accessories.

Barzan Holdings has a JV agreement with Qinetiq from the UK, a leading provider of military consultancy services, to create “BQ Solutions.” During DIMDEX, BQ Solutions signed an agreement with the Qatari Emiri Navy under which BQ Solutions will advise the Navy on best strategies and practices in “blue water” and transformational activities.

Barzan Holdings signed a JV agreement with large German defence company Rheinmetall AG and the agreement creates a JV called Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies (RBAT) that will develop an ammunition manufacturing base in Qatar, provide security for strategic venues and critical infrastructure in Qatar, and develop research in UGV (unmanned ground vehicle) and HEL (high energy lazer) technology.

Barzan Holdings signed agreements with two Turkish companies: Aselsan and SStek, to create a JV called “Barq.” Barq will engage in developing and producing electro optic equipment, crypto technology and research related to remote weapon platforms.

Barzan Holdings signed an agreement with US company Wilcox, specializing in weapons manufacturing, plus electro optic gun technology.

Barzan has also signed an MoU with Turkish company SSM, to work on joint R&D projects between Qatar and Turkey for knowledge exchange.

Barzan Holdings is working with its international partners to strengthen Qatar’s future by setting a road map for Qatar’s military and security industries, in coordination with Qatar Armed Forces.

For media enquiries please contact:
Hussain Al Qahtani
halqahtani@barzanholdings.com
+974 55005677                                       

About Barzan Holdings

Barzan Holdings was established in 2016 as a limited liability company located at the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP) and is 100% owned by Qatar’s Ministry of Defence.

Leading the concept behind Barzan Holdings, its establishment and future direction is H.E. Dr. Khalid Bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs. Barzan Holdings is led day-to-day by its Managing Director Mr. Nasser Hassan Al Haji Al Naimi and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mohammed Mubarak A. E. Al Khater.

Barzan Holdings is responsible for empowering the military capabilities of the Qatari Armed Forces. This will be achieved by partnering with leading international companies and organizations in the defence field.

Acting as a commercial gateway for the defence industry in Qatar, Barzan Holdings is open for business and provides opportunities for international companies to collaborate on R&D, facilitate knowledge transfer and create innovative defence and security technologies.

© Press Release 2018