EDGE Expands CAR 816 Manufacturing Partnership in Malaysia
Strengthening Bilateral Defence Cooperation
EDGE Group has expanded its collaboration with Malaysia-based Ketech Asia to advance production of the CAR 816 assault rifle. The renewed agreement strengthens industrial ties between the UAE and Malaysia while reinforcing long-term defence cooperation.
The partnership extension was formalised during IDEX 2025 in Abu Dhabi. It builds upon a previous technology transfer arrangement that enabled local assembly and resale of the CAR 816 within Malaysia. This latest step moves the relationship beyond basic assembly and toward deeper industrial integration.
Moving from Assembly to Full Manufacturing
Under the updated framework, Ketech Asia will now manufacture the full CAR 816 rifle system, along with selected key components, at its facility in Pahang.
This transition represents a significant milestone for Malaysia’s defence manufacturing sector. Expanding from assembly to full production enhances domestic capability and reduces reliance on external supply chains.
The agreement supports workforce development, technical upskilling, and long-term industrial resilience. It also aligns with Malaysia’s objective to strengthen its indigenous defence production ecosystem.
The CAR 816 Platform
Chambered in 5.56×45mm NATO, the CAR 816 is built around a modern AR-pattern architecture. The platform is designed for reliability, durability, and modular adaptability across operational environments.
Its compatibility with contemporary optics and accessories allows for mission-specific configuration. This flexibility makes it suitable for both military and law enforcement applications.
Local manufacturing will improve lifecycle support within Malaysia, including maintenance, servicing, and future upgrades. Enhanced domestic capability ensures faster response to operational requirements.
Supporting Defence Modernisation
Malaysia continues to prioritise defence modernisation and industrial participation. Local production of advanced rifle systems contributes to this strategic direction.
By increasing in-country manufacturing, the agreement strengthens technical expertise and supports economic growth within the defence sector. It also provides greater supply chain stability amid evolving global conditions.
Industrial collaboration at this level reflects long-term planning rather than short-term procurement.
Expanding Strategic Engagement
Beyond manufacturing, the extended cooperation creates opportunities for deeper industrial engagement. Potential joint development initiatives could further strengthen bilateral defence ties.
Such partnerships promote knowledge transfer, shared technical standards, and sustainable capability development. They also reinforce regional security by embedding advanced production capacity within Southeast Asia.
The expanded agreement reflects a structured approach to defence collaboration focused on capability building and industrial growth. Continued global engagement by EDGE highlights its commitment to fostering strategic international partnerships while supporting regional defence resilience.
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