Riyadh, February 8, 2024, SAMI has announced the establishment of the Naval Systems Integration and Development (NSID) Center of Excellence for SAMI Navantia, a subsidiary of SAMI Sea Division, marking a significant achievement for the Kingdom as it establishes its inaugural Saudi-based hub dedicated to naval systems development.
The center is poised to enhance SAMI Navantia's existing suite of products while facilitating the creation of new capabilities. It is envisioned as a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange among technological partners, universities, and potential clients, aiming to bolster the advancement and integration of cutting-edge solutions leveraging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity.
In its commitment to localizing defense industries, the center will facilitate technology transfer and cultivate national capabilities through on-the-job training initiatives. It will focus on advancing and refining various systems, including combat management, gunfire control, integrated communication, platform management, and HAZEM simulation and training.
Aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, SAMI Navantia aims to offer Saudi-made products and solutions through the NSID Center of Excellence, thereby contributing to the localization of 50% of the Kingdom's military expenditure by 2030, as spearheaded by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI). Furthermore, it seeks to empower Saudi talents by enhancing their technical expertise and bolstering their employment opportunities within the defense sector.
In tandem with these efforts, SAMI has entered into a training agreement with the Academy of Defense Industries (ADI), as part of GAMI's Military Industry Human Capital (MIHC) strategy, to launch the SAMI Apprenticeship Program. Supported by the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), this program will provide selected candidates with technical training at ADI, paving the way for potential career opportunities at SAMI upon successful completion.
Additionally, SAMI introduced the SAMI Women in Defense program at the World Defense Show 2024, aimed at promoting and empowering women's participation in the defense and security sector. The program encompasses initiatives focused on enhancing female representation in core professions, developing their capabilities, fostering leadership roles, and cultivating an inclusive work environment.
SAMI's commitment to human capital development is further evidenced by ongoing programs such as the SAMI Talent Essential Program (STEP) and initiatives like IMPACT and IGNITE aimed at grooming future leaders. Moreover, SAMI's participation in SAMI Talks at its pavilion during the show provided a platform for female employees and engineers to share insights on the role of women in defense industry development.
SAMI's dedication to advancing national capabilities across aerospace, defense, electronics, ground systems, and naval sectors underscores its commitment to supporting the readiness of the Saudi Armed Forces. With a vision to contribute significantly to the localization of the Kingdom's defense spending and to rank among the top 25 defense industry companies globally by 2030, SAMI remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence and innovation.
