Angola is nearing a major agreement with the UAE’s EDGE Group for a nationwide border surveillance and command program. The deal, now in its final negotiation phase, would be implemented by EDGE subsidiary BEACON RED.
Under the agreement, EDGE will deliver an integrated border security architecture using artificial intelligence, command and control systems, and unmanned surveillance platforms. The system is designed to improve Angola’s situational awareness and response capabilities along its land and maritime borders. The package also includes tailored training for Angolan personnel and integration with existing national defence networks.
A letter of intent was signed during UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s recent state visit to Luanda, marking a new stage in the two nations’ defence cooperation.
This border deal follows a separate €1 billion ($1.2 billion) contract signed in early 2025 between Angola and EDGE subsidiary Abu Dhabi Ship Building for the delivery of BR71 Mk II corvettes to the Angolan Navy.
Angola has been expanding efforts to secure its nearly 5,000 kilometres of borders, shared with countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. The Ministry of Interior has increased surveillance in oil-rich northern provinces to combat illegal migration, arms trafficking, and resource theft. This new program will build on recent modernisation initiatives, including the deployment of drones, biometric identification at checkpoints, and upgraded coastal radar networks.
In February, EDGE’s CEO and Managing Director, Hamad Al Marar, explains that the company aims to penetrate the African markets. “Our focus spans North Africa, from Egypt to Morocco, and extends across the entire continent.”