EDGE unit eyes Regent Craft JV for e-seaglider production in UAE
Strategic Development Fund (SDF), an Abu Dhabi-based investment company wholly owned by EDGE Group, one of the world's leading advanced technology and defence groups, today (February 26) announced that it has signed an initial agreement with Regent Craft, a Rhode Island-based developer and manufacturer of all-electric seagliders.
As per the deal, the duo will establish a joint venture (JV) to manufacture Regent's electric seagliders in the UAE for supply to the Middle East, Africa and beyond, once all necessary approvals are received.
The JV will also provide aftermarket services, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), it stated.
According to EDGE, the venture aligns with SDF's strategic objectives in focusing on advanced technologies within specific strategic sectors, among which are aerospace, and dual-use technologies.
It also supports projects that contribute to the development of the industrial ecosystem and enhance critical supply chain and production capabilities within these sectors.
SDF had initially invested in Regent in 2023 and increased its stake last year as negotiations for the UAE partnership progressed.
Upon the successful establishment of the partnership, which is subject to finalising conditions and obtaining local and international regulatory approvals - SDF plans to further invest in the company, reinforcing its confidence in Regent's potential and strengthening their long-term collaboration.
EDGE Group Managing Director and CEO Hamad Al Marar said: "SDF's investment in Regent Craft aligns with our commitment to focus on establishing strategic partnerships with key players in various industries to develop future-forward technologies."
"Our investments in critical sectors drive technological advancements and supports our goals to enhance the UAE's industrial growth in strategic sectors," he stated.
Abdulla Al Jaabari, Managing Director & CEO of SDF, said: "We strongly believe in Regent Craft's vision and groundbreaking technology. This initial agreement marks a significant step in our strategic hybrid investment approach - combining investments in international startups with strategic partnerships to contribute to the development of transformative technologies in the UAE."
Earlier this month, at the World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai, Billy Thalheimer, Co-founder and CEO of Regent Craft, spoke at the 'Future of Mobility Forum.'
During his presentations and discussions across multiple forums, he discussed Regent's plans for establishing a state-of-the-art seaglider manufacturing plant in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
'We are honoured to deepen our collaboration with SDF and make Abu Dhabi and the UAE a centre for seaglider manufacturing,' said Billy. 'This transformative potential partnership will usher in a new era of sustainable transportation technology.'
The agreement follows an April 2024 MoU between the Abu Dhabi Investment Office and Regent that aims to support the company's development and manufacturing capabilities within Abu Dhabi's Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster. -TradeArabia News Service
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