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Abu Dhabi small arms manufacturer Caracal has signed a technology transfer agreement with Malaysia-based ammunition and weaponry producer Ketech Asia.
Caracal, a subsidiary of the United Arab Emirates’ state-owned conglomeration EDGE Group, met with officials from Ketech Asia during the 2023 Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Langkawi during late May this year. The agreement was signed by Caracal chief executive officer Hamad Al Ameri and Ketech Asia chief executive officer Mohd Nahar Mohd Nasir.
Under the agreement, both companies will collaborate for the production, localised assembly, and resale of Caracal’s CAR 816 in Malaysia.
The CAR 816 centre-fire, gas-operated tactical rifle is chambered in 5.56x45mm with a magazine capacity of 30 rounds. It is designed for high-end law enforcement and military applications with semi-automatic or select-fire options.
“Under the agreement, the two companies will conduct a transfer of technology that enables Ketech Asia to assemble the highly reliable, mission-proven CAR 816 tactical assault rifle at its new facilities in Pahang, in support of the Royal Malaysia Armed Forces requirements,” a Caracal spokesperson said.
“Cooperation will also take place to review the potential of co-developing new firearms, and Ketech Asia will become an official reseller of the rifle.
“(This agreement underscores) EDGE’s confidence in developing valuable and mutually beneficial industry partnerships in Malaysia, with the aim of increasing sales of regionally manufactured advanced products and solutions in markets across Southeast Asia.
“The agreement with Ketech will also aid EDGE to explore other opportunities in Malaysia for the full range of Caracal small arms.”
Robert Dougherty
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