Atlas Telecom wins military radio contract

Abu Dhabi: The UAE as well as other countries in the GCC have purchased billions of dirhams worth of military communications systems during Idex 2011.

The UAE Armed Forces awarded a Dh63 million contract to Atlas Telecom for the provision of Tetra Communications systems, a secure radio network that can be operated in explosion-prone areas. It is especially designed for safe and reliable communication in places where inflammable substances are produced, processed, transported or stored.

In 2011, Atlas Communications is set to deliver more than Dh1 billion worth of Tetra Communication systems as well as other defence systems, Gulf News has learnt.

As part of the deal, the company will also help manage maintenance workshops for the UAE Armed Forces. Atlas Telecom, part of the Atlas Group of Companies, is a privately-owned UAE-based company.

It is touted as a leading systems integrator in the region with a core business of wireless radio networks and intelligent security systems. Over Dh5 billion has been invested through Atlas Telecom in the past five years in numerous projects for the UAE Armed Forces, Dubai Police, Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, the Kuwait Ministry of Interior and Abu Dhabi Police, among others.

Rashid Ahmad Al Mutawaa, Head of Defence for Atlas Telecom, also spoke of a Dh83 million deal to be closed soon.

The contract involves the provision of 3D geographical systems to the UAE Armed Forces, which will run in phases.

"We are expecting to close this deal very soon. 3D geographical systems will help provide crisis management solutions in case of a flood, fire, etc. It's designed to rescue individuals during mission critical situations," said Al Mutawaa.

Another Dh200 million worth of satellite circuit solutions and military telecom solutions are also in Atlas Telecom's pipeline this year.

According to Al Mutawaa, 60 per cent of the products will be purchased by the UAE, and 40 per cent will be supplied to countries in the region including Iraq, Qatar and Yemen.

The company also installed 3,000 surveillance cameras, CCTV (closed circuit television) systems with a live broadcast capacity, instant face recognition, access control system, internet, and full data transmission to a control room. Among those that will use its CCTV systems is the Abu Dhabi International Airport Terminal 3 expansion, which will have over 720 surveillance cameras connected to a central control room.

Customers

Yas Marina Circuit, the Dubai Metro and the Ajman Police are also using Atlas Telecom's CCTV systems. Edris Haboosh, Business Development and Strategic Relations Senior Vice President at Atlas Telecom, said: "Dynamic security is a huge part of Atlas Telecom's role and Idex 2011 has helped attract major international military players showcasing advanced technology that will result in a positive effect on the UAE's economic security."

Source: www.gulfnews.com