AL TARIQ manufactures and integrates the mission-proven range of Precision Guided Munitions, used on aerial bombs to convert unguided air-launched weapons into high-precision, longer-range-focused munitions using a range of technologies. Theunis Botha, CEO of AL TARIQ, speaks about their unique capabilities, operational features and strategic direction. Excerpts from the interview:
AL TARIQ has recently announced the integration of a Penetration Warhead, which is a milestone development for the company, making it possible to integrate the purpose-built warhead onto the system
Theunis Botha, the CEO of AL TARIQ, is responsible for liaising with the company’s board of directors to steer its strategic direction, while also fulfilling the role as Director Operations, where he plays an instrumental role in the optimisation of company operations and negotiations with suppliers to ensure best prices, schedules and technical solutions. Theunis brings a wealth of experience spanning more than 35 years to his role.Prior to AL TARIQ, Theunis was General Manager of Tawazun Dynamics, later re-branded to Barij Dynamics, where he supervised the product and business development functions.
Founded in 2012, AL TARIQ is an established manufacturer of Precision-Guided Munitions in the UAE. How has the company enhanced the production capacity over the years and where does the company stand globally now?
AL TARIQ is committed to leveraging the latest advanced technologies, and is backed by expertise in the various fields of engineering. The company’s teams create intellectual property of UAE origin in various areas of missile development.
AL TARIQ has built up its engineering functions and production capacity to consistently deliver enhancements and new operational features and business process improvements over the past few years.
Could you give us an overview of the products and services offered by AL TARIQ?
AL TARIQ manufactures and integrates the mission-proven AL TARIQ range of Precision Guided Munitions (PGM), used on aerial bombs to convert unguided air-launched weapons into high-precision, longer-range-focused munitions using a range of technologies. The modular design and mission flexibility of the systems allow them to adapt to new requirements as missions and platforms evolve.
We provide turnkey, high technology PGM solutions to our partners and clients allowing them to benefit from the unique capabilities of our products.
AL TARIQ states that its very purpose is to develop the next generation of precision-guided munitions using leading edge innovation. How successful have you been in leveraging the advanced technologies to suit your requirements?
Last November during the Dubai Air Show, AL TARIQ announced major upgrades to its family of PGMs. With the enhancements, the AL TARIQ PGM is updated to the Block 2 definition and boasts a host of latest technology improvements. Platform integration is fully compliant with MIL-STD-1760, and DIGIBUS specifications.
AL TARIQ also recently announced the integration of a Penetration Warhead, which is a milestone development for the company, making it possible to integrate the purpose-built warhead on to the system. This program will be completed towards the latter part of 2021.
Could you elaborate on the features of AL TARIQ system that helps to convert unguided aerial weapons into high-precision and long-range munitions and achieve enhanced targeting accuracy?
The AL TARIQ’s range of PGM’s currently has the longest stand-off range in its class compared to other similar systems. We pride ourselves in the unique modular design that we offer to satisfy a range of mission requirements with a single PGM solution. The AL TARIQ PGM range of guidance kits are designed for ease-of-use and a low life-cycle cost, providing the user with a superior and cost-effective solution. Mission accuracy is achieved by utilising state-of-the-art targeting through a choice of dual-mode seekers, against high-priority fixed, off-axis, moving and re-locatable targets.
AL TARIQ has multiple international quality certifications to guarantee the reliability and performance of every guidance kit it produces compliant with all applicable UAE and international military standards, and multiple levels of rigorous testing as part of the company’s manufacturing protocol.
AL TARIQ also gives importance to collaborative partnerships to change the face of air defence through innovation and advanced technology. What is the potential for expansion for your business in the Asian and African regions?
We are currently exploring opportunities for supply and partnering with well-established entities in certain markets. Our unique product solutions allow us to remain competitive with a positive long-term business view.
The defence industry across the world is bearing the brunt of Covid-19 pandemic. What are the measures taken by AL TARIQ to overcome the pandemic effect?
The ongoing pandemic has created a challenging operating environment for most companies around the world, and AL TARIQ and its parent company, EDGE Group, are no different. We are fortunate to enjoy deep and trusted relationships, so there is an attitude of confronting the challenges together. AL TARIQ’s executive leadership has also been proactive in foreseeing the potential effects of the economic slowdown prompted by the pandemic, and have acted accordingly. The safety of staff, partners and customers are the highest priority of AL TARIQ’s internal approach to mitigate the effects of the virus.
What are your visions and priorities for the company over the next decade? What is the roadmap ahead?
We are continuously developing new technologies to improve our weapon systems to address our client requirements. As part of its next phase of growth, AL TARIQ seeks to expand its international footprint, consolidate its position at the leading edge and maintain long-term commercial competitiveness.
