IDEX and NAVDEX, both held in Abu Dhabi this past week (20-24 February 2011) witnessed a number of alliances and finalization of expansion plans.

FNSS of Turkey entered into a partnership with Al Jaber Group of the UAE to produce wheeled armored vehicles for the UAE Armed Forces, while the Higher College of Technology teamed with Johns Hopkins University to boost its Masters Engineering programs.

Rockwell Collins, a major supplier of aircraft electronics to the military, announced its expansion to the GCC with the opening of offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

With dignitaries including 66 Defense Ministers, 64 Chiefs-of -Staff, top Commanders, VIP guests and leaders from the world defense industry being present on site, IDEX and NAVDEX have also helped cement bilateral and multilateral relationships that reach beyond business, a statement said.

“We view IDEX as more than a central forum for our defense industry,” said Lufti Varoglu, Department Head in the Turkish National Pavilion at IDEX. “What we are after are positive and strong political relationships with the UAE and GCC nations as partners in defense.”

“The Ukrainian pavilion was pleased to welcome high level Representatives and Delegates,” said Andriy Kusmiu, Press Officer for UKRSPECEXPORT. “Since 1997 our industries have viewed IDEX as an excellent forum to showcase our latest technologies while building strong business and cross-border relationships.”

“With IDEX growing each year in terms of Exhibitors, Visitors, and Official Delegations, there is little doubt its role as a forum for establishing and strengthening relationships will only expand in the coming editions,” said Major General Obaid Al Ketbi, Head of Committees and Spokesman for IDEX 2011.