WAM Saudi Editorials

06 May 2025

How AI, 3D and Defence Innovation Are Advancing Industrial Capabilities

How AI, 3D and Defence Innovation Are Advancing Industrial Capabilities
Original Editorial

As AI, automation and smart systems gain traction across industries, countries around the world are embedding these technologies into local ecosystems. From Riyadh to Rabat, Bengaluru to Lagos, the focus is clear: build capability, strengthen supply chains and develop strategic manufacturing hubs.

Recent initiatives in Saudi Arabia, Morocco, India and Africa illustrate how international partnerships and emerging technologies are translating into industrial progress across defence, logistics and manufacturing.

Saudi Arabia Invests in Naval Autonomy and Defence Capability

In Saudi Arabia, SAMI (Saudi Arabian Military Industries) and L3Harris Technologies (US) have partnered with Zamil Shipyards to develop unmanned maritime systems.

The project will focus on autonomous vessels and related naval technologies, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s industrial base while expanding its technical expertise through global collaboration. It reflects a clear commitment to enhancing operational readiness and localising advanced defence production.

These kinds of strategic advances will take centre stage at WAM Saudi 2025, held from 24 to 26 November at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre. The event will spotlight how manufacturing, logistics and industrial development are progressing across the region and beyond.
Register or learn more at www.wamsaudi.com

Morocco Gains Momentum in Defence and AI

Lockheed Martin (US) is growing its industrial presence in Morocco, supporting local manufacturing and contributing to the country’s broader industrial development goals.

In the technology space, Tingo AI, founded in Nigeria, introduced two major initiatives at GITEX Africa 2025 in Morocco: TingoGPT, an African language AI model, and a CubeSat satellite programme focused on communications and research. Both projects aim to meet specific regional needs through accessible, scalable innovation.

India Drives Precision with 3D Scanning Innovation

In India, Artec 3D (Luxembourg) has launched Artec Point in partnership with Altem Technologies, bringing high-accuracy 3D scanning to sectors like aerospace, automotive and healthcare.

This move supports India’s industrial modernisation, giving local engineers and manufacturers access to advanced scanning tools that improve design, quality control and digital prototyping.

AI-Driven Efficiency in Air Cargo

Accelya, headquartered in Spain, has unveiled FLX ONE Cargo, an AI-powered solution for the air freight industry. It uses real-time data and machine learning to automate pricing, booking and revenue management, creating new efficiencies across logistics operations.

This is part of a wider trend where AI is integrated directly into transport systems to increase adaptability and performance.

Rugged Mobility Solutions for Logistics

Tatra, the Czech truck manufacturer, has delivered military-grade vehicles to customers in North Africa and the Gulf. These vehicles are designed for demanding terrain and operational reliability, enhancing regional logistics and defence transport infrastructure.

As mobility challenges grow, there is increasing interest in versatile, high-performance solutions that combine mechanical resilience with modern capability.

Building Strength Through Localised Innovation

From Saudi Arabia’s maritime defence systems to Morocco’s AI satellites and India’s 3D scanning technology, a pattern is emerging. Innovation is being deployed with purpose, designed for regional needs and developed through practical, high-impact partnerships.

These are not isolated projects. They represent a wider industrial evolution — one built on collaboration, technical progress and a drive for meaningful local capacity.

Sources:
https://www.aircargonews.net/technology/accelya-launches-ai-driven-flx-one-cargo-platform/1079987.article  https://www.voxelmatters.com/artec-3d-launches-artec-point-in-india-to-drive-3d-scanning-innovation/   https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/04/tingo-ai-showcases-groundbreaking-innovations-at-gitex-africa-2025-in-morocco/  https://detafour.com/%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%AD%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%AA-tatra-%D8%AA%D8%B9%D8%B2%D8%B2-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%AF%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%88%D8%AC%D8%B3%D8%AA%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%87%D8%AC/  https://www.l3harris.com/newsroom/press-release/2025/04/l3harris-and-sami-joint-venture-sign-agreement-zamil-shipyards  https://en.hespress.com/107583-lockheed-martin-expands-defense-industry-footprint-in-morocco.html

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