UAE and Raytheon Emirates Unite to Boost Air Defense Through Local Coyote Manufacturing
ABU DHABI – The global security landscape is transforming rapidly, driven by the ascent of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This makes the development of robust counter-drone capabilities essential. In a significant advancement of its partnership with the United Arab Emirates, Raytheon Emirates—an RTX business—has launched a cutting-edge production and assembly facility for the Coyote counter-UAS interceptor at Tawazun Industrial Park in Abu Dhabi.
This state-of-the-art facility embodies the strategic collaboration between Raytheon Emirates and the Tawazun Council. Its mission is to bolster the UAE’s defense industrial base and optimize global defense supply chains. The Coyote interceptor, a combat-proven technology, is vital for modern air defense, capable of effectively detecting and neutralizing an array of drone threats. By situating production within the UAE, this partnership promises faster delivery and heightened flexibility to address urgent regional operational demands amidst a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
Localized Production Enhances Strategic Objectives
The establishment of this substantial 21,500-square-foot facility in Abu Dhabi arises from a collective vision for improved security and industrial progress. This initiative aligns closely with the UAE’s strategic goals, particularly in terms of advancing defense manufacturing localization. The project is poised to cultivate a highly skilled local workforce, offering Emirati engineers and technicians invaluable opportunities in cutting-edge defense production. This knowledge and technology transfer is fundamental to the partnership, promoting human capital development and aiding in the UAE’s economic diversification.
Localizing the production of critical components of the Coyote interceptor within the UAE provides clear operational benefits. The new facility will greatly reduce lead times for essential parts, enabling rapid access to advanced counter-drone technologies. This domestic capability also strengthens supply chain resilience by minimizing dependence on external factors and ensuring ongoing operational preparedness.
Concrete Steps Towards a Secure Future
The initiative is already underway. Raytheon Emirates has joined forces with local organizations, including EDGE’s EPI, which has commenced manufacturing prototype components as an essential precursor to full industrial readiness. This collaboration showcases the practical implementation of the UAE’s industrial strategy, effectively enhancing local content and empowering Emirati firms to take a leading role in global supply chains.
Following the initial announcement at IDEX 2023, the opening of the Coyote production facility exemplifies a steadfast and trusted partnership. It vividly illustrates how collaboration can fortify national defense, stimulate economic growth, and propel technological advancement. The aim of this partnership is to build enduring capabilities, drive innovation, and ensure a secure future for the UAE.
$5B for Long-Term Counter-Drone Defense
In September 2025, Raytheon was awarded a substantial $5.04 billion contract for the Coyote counter-UAS systems and KuRFS radars from the Pentagon, with orders extending through 2033. The Coyote system has already demonstrated its effectiveness in operational environments and is a crucial component of a broader U.S. military initiative aimed at developing scalable, integrated defenses against drone threats.
