Leonardo has signed a major naval combat systems contract with Abu Dhabi Ship Building, the naval arm of EDGE Group, for the Kuwait Navy’s Al Dorra missile boat programme. The agreement, valued at approximately €320 million, covers the supply of next-generation naval combat systems for the Falaj 3 configuration selected for Kuwait.

The contract represents an important milestone in the long-standing partnership between Leonardo, EDGE Group and ADSB. Their cooperation has already resulted in the delivery of more than 25 vessels over more than 20 years, demonstrating a strong record of industrial collaboration and operational reliability.

Under the agreement, Leonardo will provide advanced combat system technologies designed to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Kuwaiti missile boats. These systems are expected to support modern naval missions, including surveillance, maritime security, surface warfare and integrated command-and-control operations.

The deal also strengthens the strategic relationship between Leonardo and EDGE Group. According to Leonardo, the agreement marks a further step toward the creation of a future joint venture between the two companies. This reflects a broader trend in the defence sector, where European and Gulf-based companies are increasingly developing industrial partnerships to address regional and international requirements.

A key element of the programme is the development of a comprehensive “whole warship management” capability. This approach covers the full spectrum of naval platform delivery, from system integration to the provision of advanced combat technologies. By combining Leonardo’s naval systems expertise with ADSB’s shipbuilding capabilities, the partners aim to offer a complete and competitive solution for modern naval customers.

For the Kuwait Navy, the Al Dorra programme will contribute to fleet modernisation and strengthen the country’s maritime defence capabilities. The integration of next-generation combat systems will improve the missile boats’ ability to operate in complex maritime environments and respond to evolving regional security challenges.

Leonardo is a strategic partner of the Italian Navy and a leading supplier of naval systems to international customers. Its portfolio includes combat management systems, naval guns, long-range surveillance systems and missile defence solutions. These technologies are installed on vessels operated by more than 100 navies worldwide, underlining the company’s strong position in the global naval defence market.

The contract also reinforces Leonardo’s presence in the Middle East, a region where naval modernisation remains a major priority. Gulf navies continue to invest in advanced platforms and combat systems to protect maritime infrastructure, secure sea lines of communication and enhance national defence capabilities.

For EDGE Group and ADSB, the agreement further confirms their growing role in the international naval sector. ADSB has developed into a key regional shipbuilding and naval support company, while EDGE continues to expand its defence technology portfolio and international partnerships.

Overall, the Al Dorra contract highlights the increasing importance of integrated naval solutions, industrial cooperation and advanced combat system capabilities in the global defence market. For Leonardo, it represents both a major commercial success and a further consolidation of its position as a leading provider of high-end naval technologies.