General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and EDGE Group subsidiary EPI have signed a framework agreement to manufacture Electronic Brake Control Units in the United Arab Emirates. The partnership, announced at Dubai Airshow on November 19, 2025, operates under the UAE Tawazun Economic Programme.
Highlights
- Joint manufacturing facility: GA-ASI and EPI will produce and repair Electronic Brake Control Units for civilian and defense aircraft in the UAE
- Technology advancement: eBCUs replace legacy hydraulic braking systems with compact, high-performance electronic alternatives
- Economic impact: Partnership supports UAE industrial development through the Tawazun Offset program, driving local manufacturing capabilities
- Applications: Systems designed for both commercial aviation and defense aerospace platforms
Strategic Partnership Details
The collaboration leverages the Tawazun Economic Programme, overseen by Tawazun Council for Defense Enablement. The program aims to generate economic value through innovation and industrial development aligned with defense priorities.
Majed Saif Al Shamsi, Executive Director of the Economic Programme at Tawazun, emphasized the initiative’s role in advancing precision engineering capabilities. The partnership positions the UAE as a regional hub for high-value defense manufacturing.
Electronic Brake Control Technology
eBCUs represent a fundamental shift from hydraulic braking systems in aircraft applications. The electronic systems offer several operational advantages:
- Compact design: Reduced physical footprint compared to hydraulic systems
- Performance: Enhanced braking control and responsiveness
- Environmental benefits: Elimination of hydraulic fluids and associated environmental concerns
- Maintenance: Lower maintenance requirements and simplified service procedures
Manufacturing and Vertical Integration
Michael Deshaies, CEO of EPI, highlighted the agreement’s significance for UAE aerospace capabilities. The partnership advances vertical integration objectives and enhances In-Country Value metrics. The facility will provide comprehensive aftermarket support for the electronic braking systems.
GA-ASI President David R. Alexander characterized electronic braking as a transformative aviation technology. The company anticipates the systems becoming standard equipment for modern aircraft platforms.
GA-ASI Background
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems specializes in unmanned aircraft systems development. The company’s Predator line of UAS has accumulated over 9 million flight hours across more than 30 years of operations.
Current platforms include MQ-9A Reaper, MQ-1C Gray Eagle, MQ-20 Avenger, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian.
Additional information is available at www.ga-asi.com.
Economic Development Impact
The manufacturing partnership reinforces technological growth initiatives in the UAE aerospace sector. The agreement supports economic development objectives while contributing to aviation technology evolution globally.
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