By Staff Correspondent
The International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) 2025 has once again proven to be the epicenter of innovation and technological advancement in the global defence and security sectors. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, this year’s event has introduced a groundbreaking initiative: *IDEX Next_Gen*, a platform dedicated to empowering startups to present their revolutionary solutions to industry leaders, military officials, and decision-makers. On the second day of the highly anticipated competition, five pioneering startups dazzled audiences with their cutting-edge technologies, demonstrating the future of defence innovation.
IDEX Next_Gen is more than just a competition—it is a stage for ambition, creativity, and ingenuity. By providing a space for startups to showcase their ideas, this initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging technologies in the defence and naval sectors. On the second day of the competition, five remarkable companies—Sinaha Technology, Sky Works – Telearmy, Smart Audio Technologies, Tactical Skeleton/EAG (Eagle Armory Group), and Broswarm—took the spotlight. Each company presented its visionary solutions, impressing an expert panel with its technical prowess, strategic thinking, and market potential. The stakes are high, as the prestigious IDEX Next_Gen title will be awarded on February 20, 2025, during the fourth day of the exhibition.
The presentations were nothing short of extraordinary, with each startup pushing the boundaries of what is possible in defence innovation. Sinaha Technology captivated the audience with its suite of autonomous solutions, including the Robotruck and UAV-based services. These electric-powered, fully autonomous systems are designed for continuous operation, offering real-time data transfer and efficient coverage of large areas. From surveillance and inspection to gas detection, Sinaha’s customizable solutions promise to redefine operational efficiency in diverse industries.
Equally impressive, Sky Works – Telearmy introduced its groundbreaking teledriving technology, which is set to revolutionize frontline military operations. By enabling remote-controlled vehicle driving, Telearmy enhances both safety and operational effectiveness. From transporting wounded soldiers and navigating minefields to conducting spy missions, this technology offers unparalleled versatility. Sky Works is clearly on the cutting edge of military innovation after being selected for the NATO DIANA accelerator.
Smart Audio Technologies brought a unique perspective to the competition with its dual-use AI audio technology. Designed to eliminate noise and ensure crystal-clear communication in extreme environments, this innovation is a game-changer for sectors like defence, aviation, and emergency services. Their active smart mask, featuring a positive air pressure system, adds an extra layer of protection, making it invaluable for high-risk operations. Smart Audio Technologies is setting new standards for communication and safety in high-noise, high-stakes environments.
On the weapons front, Tactical Skeleton/EAG (Eagle Armory Group) showcased its straight-pull conversion kit for rifles. This innovative system doubles the reloading speed, allowing shooters to maintain their grip and stay on target. The result? Faster, more precise follow-up shots can make all the difference in critical situations. Tactical Skeleton’s technology is a testament to how even small innovations can have a profound impact on operational efficiency.
Finally, Broswarm unveiled its revolutionary X-Ray Eagle technology, which utilizes a miniaturized synthetic radar system to enhance resolution and depth perception. With the ability to detect underground objects of varying sizes and depths, this technology has applications ranging from archaeology and mining to security and surveillance. Mounted on drones, the X-Ray Eagle offers unparalleled versatility and efficiency, making it a vital tool for modern defense operations.
The energy at IDEX 2025 is electric, with these startups showcasing not only their technologies but also their vision for the future. The competition is fierce, and the expert panel has a challenging task ahead as they evaluate the startups based on criteria such as ideation, communication, team structure, and marketing strategies. These innovators are not just presenting products—they are presenting possibilities, shaping the future of defence and security.
Organized by the ADNEC Group in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council, IDEX 2025 is a testament to the UAE’s leadership in fostering global collaboration and innovation in the defence sector. Running from February 17 to 21 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi, the event has drawn participants and attendees from around the world, creating a vibrant hub of ideas, technologies, and partnerships.
As the competition heats up and the fourth-day approaches, the anticipation for the announcement of the IDEX Next_Gen title winner is palpable. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: the future of defence innovation is bright, and it is being shaped by the bold ideas and relentless determination of these startups. IDEX Next_Gen has not only provided a platform for these innovators but also ignited a spark of inspiration for the entire industry. The technologies showcased this year will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, driving the defence sector toward a smarter, safer, and more efficient future.
