CAIRO — Türkiye and Egypt have showcased the fruits of their growing defence partnership with the unveiling of the Aqrab unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) at the EDEX 2025 (Egypt Defence Expo.). The launch highlights a new era of collaboration between Ankara and Cairo in advanced military technology.
Developed by Turkish defence company Havelsan in cooperation with Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI), the Aqrab was presented alongside the Hamza-1 unmanned aerial vehicle. Both platforms were produced locally in Egypt, underscoring the joint commitment to strengthening indigenous defence capabilities.
The Aqrab, a 6×6 unmanned ground platform, is designed to carry a remote-controlled weapon system and operate effectively in desert conditions. Its modular design allows for multiple mission profiles, including reconnaissance, logistics support, and combat operations.
Meanwhile, the Hamza-1 drone, capable of vertical take-off and landing, drew attention as one of the standout innovations at the exhibition.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi personally inspected the vehicles during his visit to the fair, signalling Cairo’s strong interest in expanding cooperation with Türkiye in defence manufacturing.
The unveiling also coincided with high-level meetings between Egyptian officials and Turkish defence industry representatives, where discussions centred on broader collaboration in military production.
The partnership reflects a notable shift in relations between the two countries, which have recently sought to deepen ties after years of strained diplomacy. Defence analysts view the unveiling as a strategic move to bolster regional security and diversify military supply chains.
The EDEX 2025 exhibition, held from 1 to 4 December at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre, attracted delegations from across the globe.
Havelsan used the platform to present its software-based defence solutions and engage with potential partners, further positioning Türkiye as a key player in the Middle East and North Africa’s defence landscape.
Industry observers suggest that the Aqrab and Hamza-1 could pave the way for future co-production projects, enhancing Egypt’s defence autonomy while offering Türkiye new opportunities to expand its technological footprint in the region.
Sources: Hürriyet Daily News, Middle East Monitor
