Al Marakeb Boat Manufacturing Company signed an agreement with Ali & Sons Marine Engineering (ASMEF) and Exalto Emirates,at IDEX 2017.

In a "First of Its Kind" project, Al Marakeb will convert one of ASMEF vessels to unmanned operations using MAP Technologies solutions.

The leading UAE-based company and ASMEF has confirmed to explore the conversion of the 70 tonnes, 16.4m Noor II vessel as a Proof of Concept (POC). After sea trial and technical fit out, the system will be demonstrated to select parties who have shown interest in obtaining larger and more dynamic target boats for live fire training exercises.

Many Air Forces have been on the search for targets that can be engaged at longer ranges and whose signature and movement mechanically replicates mission profiles, while Al Marakeb’s MAP Tech is able to convert any type manned vessel to a USV and serve this purpose.

The state-of-the-art devices are user friendly, easy to install and can be integrated and configured with any vessel of any size to navigate a course that is wholly predetermined by the pilot and can be used for both commercial and maritime defence applications.

Managing Director of Ali & Sons Shamis Al Dhaheri said, "The project proves that UAE companies not only understand the mission but have the technical capability, infrastructure and expertise to meet the requirement. "

He added, "For Ali & Sons, as a forward-looking organisation, we are continually eyeing developments in the maritime industry. Moving into the USV sector is a natural progression and this project is something we are excited to pioneer".

Exalto Emirates General Manager John Paul said, "As a company we are proud to be associated with such an innovative product as MAP Tech, especially being engineered and produced in the UAE."