PARIS - Saudi Arabia Military Industries (SAMI), a state-owned defense company, has signed an agreement with France's Safran Helicopter Engines for engine maintenance and repair, according to the Saudi state news agency SPA.
The agreement, which was announced on Thursday, June 23, 2023, includes "technical assistance and qualification, development of technical infrastructure, and technical training for Saudi talents who will earn their top qualifications through Safran Helicopter Engines" facility in Tarnos, France", SPA said.
SAMI is a key player in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a strategic plan to diversify the kingdom's economy and reduce its dependence on oil revenues. SAMI aims to increase the localization of the defense sector from 2% to 50% by 2030.
Safran Helicopter Engines is a leading manufacturer of helicopter engines, with more than 75,000 engines produced since its inception in 1939. It provides engines for civil and military helicopters, such as the Airbus H125 and H145, the Leonardo AW109 and AW139, and the NH90.
The agreement between SAMI and Safran Helicopter Engines is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Saudi defense industry and create new opportunities for cooperation and partnership between the two countries.
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