Space42 and Leonardo DRS partnered to link AI satellites with military computing tools to boost United Arab Emirates national security.
A major artificial intelligence space company in the United Arab Emirates named Space42 announced a strategic partnership with global defense technology provider Leonardo DRS on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
The two companies signed an official agreement, known as a Memorandum of Understanding, to combine space satellites and military technology.
By joining forces, the companies aim to build advanced communication systems that keep military vehicles, defense centers, and government security teams across the United Arab Emirates connected and protected from digital or physical threats.
To understand why this partnership matters, it helps to look at how military and security teams communicate in the field. When soldiers, border guards, or security officers operate in remote areas like deserts or oceans, regular cell phone towers and landline networks do not work.
Security forces must rely on space satellites orbiting high above the Earth to send messages, track vehicle locations, and share live video.
However, if those satellite signals are weak or hacked, commanders on the ground cannot see what is happening. This joint project solves that problem by connecting satellite technology directly to rugged computer screens installed inside military vehicles.
Under the agreement, Space42 provides smart satellite networks powered by artificial intelligence. These space systems allow security teams to transmit high-speed data securely over vast distances, even when vehicles travel far beyond the direct line of sight.
At the same time, Leonardo DRS provides specialized military computer hardware, tactical screens, and vehicle electronics. These onboard computer systems help commanders analyze battlefield information in real time without being overwhelmed by complicated numbers or confusing data.
Explaining the vision behind this national security initiative, Ahmed AlMehrzi, Chief Commercial Officer for Government at Space42, publicly stated, “It is a strategic priority for Space42 to be recognized as a trusted leader in secure connectivity, as we set the standard for resilient, mission-ready networks.”
He emphasized the importance of joining forces with an established defense provider, adding, “By combining our sovereign satellite infrastructure and AI-enabled communications capabilities with Leonardo DRS’s advanced mission systems, we are strengthening protected communications that advance the UAE’s national security ecosystem.”
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The partnership comes at a time when defense challenges around the world are becoming increasingly complex. Modern security operations require constant communication between ground forces, air units, and central command posts. If one part of the network goes down, security officers can lose vital information.
By combining space based artificial intelligence with tough ground equipment, the two companies ensure that government defense teams maintain clear, uninterrupted visibility during critical missions.
Highlighting their commitment to supporting local defense needs, Denny Crumley, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit, publicly stated, “This MoU marks a significant step forward in our commitment to supporting U.A.E. national security priorities with proven, advanced integrated capabilities that enable mission success in today’s evolving threat landscape.”
He expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, noting, “We are proud to be a part of this opportunity with Space42 as we continue to grow our international business with strategic partners around the world.”
For ordinary citizens, the core takeaway from this collaboration is straightforward: technology in space is being used to keep people safe on the ground. By combining artificial intelligence satellites with reliable military hardware, the United Arab Emirates is building a stronger digital shield that protects its borders, secures critical national infrastructure, and ensures that defense forces can communicate clearly during emergencies.
About the Author
Jennifer Sakmufuwo Baba is a tech analyst, senior staff, and writer covering artificial intelligence, cybersecurity , and emerging technologies at TechRegard. Based in Nigeria, she's passionate about translating complex tech developments into compelling, accessible stories for diverse audiences. Her work focuses on how technology shapes innovation across Africa and globally.
