Saudi Arabia’s GAMI, SAMI to Manufacture ‘SkyGuard’ UAV

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) signed a contract on Monday with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) to develop and manufacture the unmanned aerial vehicle, ‘SkyGuard’.

The two agencies announced they aim to establish a base for technological innovation, both regionally and internationally.

In line with the kingdom’s strategy to localize over 50% of expenditure on defense equipment and services by 2030, SAMI also signed an agreement with Prince Sultan Defense Studies and Research Centre (PSDSARC) to further develop “SkyGuard.”

“The agreement is expected to add significant value by increasing military readiness, enhancing field responsiveness and technical support within the Kingdom’s defense ecosystem,” Governor of GAMI, Ahmad Al-Ohali said.

“Saudi Arabia is laying today the foundation of transformation in this promising sector for generations to come,” CEO of SAMI, Walid Abu khaled stated, describing the agreement as a step among many in the kingdom’s ambitious localisation journey.

Abu khaled added that the agreement aims to build a strong local defense ecosystem including native supply chains to meet Saudi’s need to be self-sufficient.