Defense and Security

Gulf Arab states agree joint military force

Gulf Arab states have agreed to create a joint rapid deployment force to address security threats in the world's top oil-exporting region, a senior Gulf official said in December. The force would intervene in situations similar to an incursion into Saudi Arabia by Yemeni Shi'ite rebels earlier this year, Abdul-Rahman al-Attiyah, secretary-general of the Gulf Cooperation Council, told a news conference at a summit of Gulf leaders. "The force will be one of the pillars that will support stability and security in the region," Attiyah said, without giving further details. The US-allied six-nation bloc is located across the Gulf from Iran and includes the world's top oil exporter Saudi Arabia. They share Washington's concerns over Iran's nuclear plans.

Homeland security budgets to double in Gulf region

Gulf Arab States are serious about their Homeland security concerns and as such are making modernization of security equipment and technology a priority. A recent study from Homeland Security Research Corporation (HSRC) revealed that spending on homeland security is set to double in the UAE from AED 20 billion to AED 40 billion in the next 10 years. Saudi Arabia, a long time customer of Western countries such as the US, UK and Europe, according to a source from the Russian Defence Industry, is diversifying its source of security equipment with works nearly complete on a AED 7.34 billion (US$ 2 billion) deal with Russia on the delivery of Russian arms and military technology to the Kingdom.

GW Globe/CP say Garda wins US$100m Iraq deal

A Canadian newspaper has reported that Garda World Security has won a US$100-million contract from the U.K. Foreign and Commonwealth Office to provide security services for the British Embassy and its offices in Iraq. The contract runs for three-years - Garda World will provide mobile security for embassy personnel travelling throughout Iraq as well as static security to the British Embassy in Baghdad and embassy offices in Basra. Garda's global risks division head LeMarque Sheppard says the company supports the peace and reconstruction efforts in Iraq. Garda provides cash logistics, global risk consulting and physical security services around the world. It employs 45,000 people.

Rolls-Royce wins order to supply waterjets to the UAE navy

Rolls-Royce, the global power systems company, has announced an order to supply 24 lightweight waterjets for the UAE Navy’s fleet of fast patrol boats. The UAE Navy has ordered 12 new fast patrol boats, based on the proven Ghannatha Class fast troop transport vessel. These are currently under construction by Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), with the first due to enter service in 2012. The order also includes a joystick control system that will improve the maneuvering capability of the vessels. The new vessels, measuring 26.5 meters in length, are being constructed from aluminum and the waterjets will enable a maximum speed in excess of 35 knots.