Will and determination to challenge difficulties and achieve the desired development in all sectors amidst the global crises are the characteristics of Egypt’s New Republic.
President Abdel Fattah El Sisi’s opening of the 3rd Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX 2023 ) reflects the continuous efforts exerted by the Egyptian leadership to modernise its army and keep in pace with the state-of-the art military production around the world.
The Egyptian state has realised that depending on itself for the manufacturing of arms has become a necessity today amidst the turbulent regional changes and the global economic challenges.
‘Will and Determination’ was the title of a documentary produced by the Armed Forces Morale Affairs Department and shown during the opening of EDEX 2023 last Monday. The documentary portrayed the diversity of capacities, elevated performance and richness of specialisations of Egypt’s naval forces. It also showed that the local and joint military manufacturing played a major role in enhancing the Navy’s armament capabilities.
The film also pointed out that the Alexandria Shipyard Company, an affiliate of the Egyptian Navy’s Marine Industries and Services Apparatus, has with 100 per cent Egyptian hands and minds, completed the manufacture and assembly of the first MEKO A200 frigate. The 121-metre long and 16.34-metre wide vessel has an estimated sailing capacity of 7,200 nautical miles and its maximum speed of 27.5 knots. The frigate is equipped with such modern weapon systems that enable it to carry out all combat missions during peace and war and to counter all surface, air and underwater threats.
The latest Egyptian weapons showcased in EDEX2023 indicate that Egypt has restored its position among major manufacturing countries of military ships. EDEX 2023 displayed a variety of top-notch military weapons manufactured by Egyptians, showing that Egypt can perform miracles when it decides to depend on itself and use its local potentials to achieve whatever it wants. It also proved that Egypt is in the way of becoming a distinguished weapons maker globally.
EDEX 2023 also showed some weapons Egypt produced through joint co-operation with other countries, thanks to the balanced and wise policy of Egypt’s leadership that built its strong ties with other countries.
The event is practical testimony of the efforts made by the military production institutions, officers and engineers in Egypt. The broad participation of major national and international defence manufacturers in the event is clear indication of their respect and appreciation for the Egyptian state and army, as well as the success of the past two editions of the expo.
Mohamed Fahmy is the editor-in-chief of The Egyptian Gazette and Egyptian Mail newspapers
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