Strengthening military aviation MRO collaboration

At IDEX 2025, Safran Aircraft Engines and Abu Dhabi Aviation Group (ADA) signed an MoU to enhance collaboration in military aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services.

The agreement aims to bolster national capabilities while expanding international opportunities in aerospace maintenance.

ADA Group, the parent company of GAL and AMMROC—two key players in integrated aviation support and military MRO solutions—plays a vital role in advancing the UAE’s defence and aviation sector.

Leveraging expertise

Through this partnership, Safran Aircraft Engines and ADA will jointly explore engine maintenance opportunities, combining ADA subsidiaries’ expertise with Safran’s extensive knowledge as an engine manufacturer.

The collaboration will focus on ensuring sustained operational readiness for military aviation, enhancing local depot-level maintenance (DLM) capabilities, and strengthening support for Safran’s military engine portfolio.

By leveraging shared expertise, both companies aim to reinforce the UAE’s position as a leader in aerospace maintenance and defence operations.

The signing of this MoU aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision to strengthen its indigenous defence capabilities while positioning the country as a global hub for aerospace services.

By integrating expertise and resources, Safran Aircraft Engines and ADA will jointly pursue initiatives that enhance fleet availability, improve delivery timelines, and ensure mission readiness for the UAE’s armed forces.

His Excellency Nader Ahmed AlHammadi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, commented, “This agreement with Safran Aircraft Engines is a strategic step in reinforcing the UAE’s aerospace and defence ecosystem. By integrating Safran’s world-class expertise with ADA’s proven capabilities in aviation maintenance and operational support, we are empowering fleet readiness, enhancing technical proficiency, and ensuring sustained mission success. This partnership aligns with our commitment to advancing capabilities and positioning the UAE as a global leader in aerospace services, while delivering long-term value to our defence and aviation sectors.”

“We are honored to partner with ADA to support the UAE’s defence sector,” said Christophe BRUNEAU, EVP & general manager for the military engines division at Safran Aircraft Engines. “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in leveraging our combined expertise to deliver world-class MRO solutions. By working together, we aim to anticipate and address the maintenance needs of the UAE armed forces and to reinforce our MRO global network, reinforcing fleet reliability and sustainability.”