The UAE has launched Altair-1, its first domestically manufactured commercial satellite, aboard a SpaceX rideshare mission from California. Assembled at Orbitworks' KEZAD facility in Abu Dhabi, the satellite is the first of a planned 10-satellite AI-enabled Earth observation constellation. The milestone aligns with the UAE's National Space Strategy 2031 and industrial manufacturing initiatives.
The UAE is evaluating a commercial tender that could double its nuclear reactor fleet while exploring small modular reactors for data centres, ports, and hydrogen production, according to an analysis by law firm Stephenson Harwood reported by Utilities Middle East. The expansion builds upon the fully operational 5.6 GW Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant to support projected power market growth from 54.15 GW to 68.08 GW. Advanced reactor initiatives include partnerships on GE Vernova Hitachi's BWRX-300 SMR and NANO Nuclear Energy's KRONOS micro-modular reactor.
BRICS member economies, including China and the UAE, highlighted expanded cooperation in critical minerals, clean-tech manufacturing, and supply chains at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. Discussions featured China's upcoming 2027 presidency priorities in smart manufacturing and AI, as well as a proposed $11.5 billion aluminium investment by the UAE's International Holding Company. The bloc's New Delhi Declaration called for greater developing-nation participation in advanced manufacturing and broader use of national currencies.
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