IDEX 2013 to launch dedicated zone for unmanned systems

The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) has announced the introduction of a focused Unmanned Systems Area to be launched at the show’s next edition in February 2013. Dedicated to the technology and equipment of unmanned vehicle systems, the area will feature a one-day technology workshop, a purpose-built exhibition hall and a static and live demonstration area. Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments (ADASI), a Tawazun Holding subsidiary and the first UAE-based company to ever offer a comprehensive range of services to cover all types of autonomous systems, is the principal sponsor for the area. The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), the world’s largest non-profit organisation devoted exclusively to advancing the unmanned systems and robotics community, will help support the technology workshop. ‘We work to ensure every edition of IDEX keeps pace with the forefront of industry innovation and market requirements,’ said Saleh Al Marzooqi, IDEX Director. ‘Unmanned systems represent the very leading-edge of defence technology, reinforcing strong security infrastructures and keeping troops out of harm’s way. The Unmanned Systems Area fits naturally with IDEX’s history of innovation and market leadership.’ ‘The autonomous and special mission systems in the market today demonstrate how innovative systems design and technological integration can help further enhance national security, and help nations conduct high level surveillance, security and exploration missions, including Search and Rescue,’ said Ali Al Yafei, CEO of ADASI. ‘We are pleased to offer our support for the Unmanned Systems Area at IDEX which we feel represents a key burgeoning area of the defence industry.’ Organised by the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company in coordination with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ and headline sponsor Tawazun, IDEX, held biennially, will take place at Abu Dhabi’s National Exhibition Centre from the 17th – 21st of February, 2013. First held in 1993, IDEX is the largest joint defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. IDEX takes place