UAE's Edge and General Atomics Partner to Manufacture Advanced Electronic Brake Control Systems

The UAE is building electronic brake control units for aircraft locally through a new partnership between its Defense Enabling Balance Council, Edge Group, and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. This deal brings advanced aviation technology manufacturing to the Emirates and replaces traditional hydraulic brake systems with more efficient electronic ones.

The agreement falls under the UAE's Economic Balance Program, which aims to create lasting value for the national economy while boosting innovation in the defense sector. The program works to align defense priorities with the country's industrial and technological development goals.

Under the partnership, EPI and General Atomics will manufacture and maintain electronic brake control units (eBCUs) in the UAE. This technology represents a major shift from conventional hydraulic braking systems used in both civilian and military aircraft applications.

"This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing local innovation in the aerospace sector," said Majed Saif Al Shamsi, Executive Director of the Economic Balance Program. "We're working to develop and localize advanced technologies like electronic brake control units, which will improve operational efficiency and support the security of aviation systems."

The electronic braking technology offers several advantages over traditional systems. It's more compact, delivers better performance, provides environmental benefits, and requires less maintenance. These improvements make it particularly attractive for modern aircraft design.

Michael Dyches, CEO of EPI, highlighted how the partnership will boost the UAE's aviation manufacturing sector. "This collaboration helps us develop an integrated local manufacturing system, increase local content, and provide comprehensive technical support and after-sales services for this advanced smart braking system."

David R. Alexander, president of General Atomics, emphasized the technology's potential impact on aviation. "Electronic brake technology represents a qualitative leap in aviation technology development. With its integrated design, superior performance, environmental benefits, and lower maintenance requirements, this advanced technology will become the modern standard for aircraft."

The partnership demonstrates how the UAE is positioning itself in the global aviation technology market. By manufacturing these components locally, the country reduces dependence on imports while building expertise in advanced aerospace systems.

This move comes as the aviation industry increasingly adopts electronic systems to replace mechanical and hydraulic components. Electronic brake systems offer better control, reduced weight, and improved reliability compared to older technologies.

The collaboration also supports the UAE's broader economic diversification strategy, moving beyond oil revenues toward high-tech manufacturing and innovation. The aerospace sector represents a key area for this transition, given the country's strategic location and growing aviation hub status.