Al Marakeb reveals Autonomous Vessel Technologies at NAVDEX 2019

ABU DHABI- Al Marakeb Boat Manufacturing Company, a leading UAE-based maritime company building high-performance vessels and Autonomous Systems Providers, is displaying its latest in USV technologies at the NAVDEX 2019 taking place from 17th to 21st February, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, ADNEC.

In accordance with the Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 focused on strengthening the economy and the defence sector, the company, working in partnership with key industry players is exhibiting state-of-the-art innovations at its stand (B-038). Al Marakeb is hosting a live demonstration of AHM13USV, an armed 13m USV, a by-product of a recent collaboration with long-standing Emirati boat builder Al Hareb Marine for visitors to experience maritime technology first hand.

The shipping container on display at Al Marakeb’s stand hosts a Command and Control station to operate the 13m vessel situated at Ghantoot 70 km away of ADNEC. The vessel is being remotely controlled by the C2-20 Command and Control Station at NAVDEX using MAP-Pro Autonomous Technology.

For the live demonstration, the MAP-Pro system relays engine diagnostics, route management, a live camera feed, a radar cscreen and an obstacle warning alarm in real-time. However, most notably, the system showcases a live operation of the STAMP gun that is mounted on the vessel and is provided through an ongoing alliance with IGG ASELSAN and Al Marakeb on several opportunities to date. "Al Marakeb’s participation at this year’s NAVDEX serves to demonstrate the true power of working together with leading forces to combine technologies that ultimately place the UAE in the global arena for unmanned technologies. Our display at NAVDEX is a prime example of our company’s innovative culture which thrives on excellence and diversity. Collaborating with key industry players reflects our vision to upgrade defence technology and highlights our efforts towards implementing latest innovations in the USV market." said Nour Al Sayyed, Chief Operating Officer of Al Marakeb.

The company also presents the AHM11USV, a new 11m addition to its fleet, making a debut at NAVDEX. The USV is comprised of the boat and propulsion system, the patented MAP Pro autonomous conversion kit and the rocket launcher-MILAS by IGG Aselsan. The LMM Missile Launching System, MILAS, developed for defence against surface and aerial threats, is a customised solution for different naval platforms such as fast interceptor crafts, patrol boats and corvettes.

Research shows defence related projects account for an estimated 60 percent of overall activity in the Middle East, with naval systems, surveillance radars and communications being of high importance, making the defence market pivotal to the region’s future economic success. Displaying a decade of expertise, Al Marakeb has shown remarkable growth in the sector serving clients both regionally and internationally with its global reach.