The SAMI-L3Harris Joint Venture (JV) along with Zamil Shipyards has entered into a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at producing 'Made in Saudi' unmanned surface vessels (USVs).
This pact will involve the collaborators incorporating autonomous tech into both present and upcoming naval ships.
Dave Johnson, who serves as the L3Harris International vice president and also holds the position of SAMI-L3Harris JV vice chairman, stated: "This memorandum of understanding marks an important advancement in our dedication to aiding the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through the provision of autonomous vehicle technology."
In collaboration with Zamil Shipyards, we are poised to revolutionize maritime surveillance and mission execution through our partnership and local manufacturing strengths.
This agreement syncs up with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries to promote localization by strengthening both domestic and foreign companies in this field.
As per the agreement outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Zamil Shipyards will assume responsibility for both the design and construction of unmanned marine vessels.
At the same time, SAMI-L3Harris will handle the incorporation of autonomous systems, sensors, and mission system functionalities into these platforms.
It is anticipated that the collaboration will hit a key landmark in 2025 through several aquatic demonstration events.
Zamil Shipyards general manager Alastair Bisset said: “We are delighted to sign this MOU to create one of the first ‘Saudi Made’ unmanned surface vessels. We believe that USVs could be a game-changer in helping nations secure their borders, both above and below water, against the increasing nature of asymmetric threats.
Through this partnership with SAMI-L3Harris, our aim is to create multiple modular versions offering extensive surveillance and preventive functionalities.
The partnership between Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and L3Harris Technologies centers on the localization of sophisticated communication systems, sensor technologies, and integrated mission solutions.
The JV was established through a Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) in June 2019 , having finished commercial registration in August 2020.
It started operating completely in 2021.
"The SAMI-L3Harris Joint Venture and Zamil Shipbuilding will collaborate to develop 'Made in Saudi' USVs," as initially crafted and shared by Naval Technology , a Massimaowned brand.
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