Ondas, a prominent provider of private industrial wireless networks and commercial drone/ automated data solutions, signed a memorandum of understanding with Moroccan vendor Maghrebnet, which specializes in information technologies, security, networks, telecommunications, electricity, and renewable energies. The former will manufacture Optimus Drone-In a-Box systems and establish a Joint Research and Development (R&D) & Training Center in Morocco, announced Ondas on Thursday in a press release.
Maghrebnet will introduce Ondas’ systems to potential customers in the region and will handle the manufacture and distribution of Ondas’ automated Optimus Drone-In-a-Box systems in both Morocco and Senegal.
The two firms will work towards achieving cost-effective manufacturing of docking stations and the establishment of the aforementioned R&D center. This facility will contribute to the enhancement of existing products through the development of new and innovative features and solutions. The hub will also actively participate in local bid competitions for ongoing projects and serve as a focal point for talent acquisition, development, and management within the local market.
The parties will jointly recruit, train, and manage a skilled workforce to support the center’s operations and contribute to the success of various initiatives.
“Maghrebnet has forged a strategic partnership with Ondas, specializing in the production and operation of autonomous Unmanned Aircraft (UA) systems and solutions to expand our portfolio of security-related services,” said El-Mekki Benamar, Maghrebnet’s Chief Information Officer.
Ondas revealed that the drone market in the Middle East and Africa is valued at $3.5 billion as of 2023, and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.14% to $4.94 billion by 2028.
“Morocco is demonstrating strong leadership within Africa with a focus on technological development, particularly in the aeronautics sector,” said Eric Brock, Chairman and CEO of Ondas.
Ondas’ Optimus drone operates using fleets of automated drones which do not require on-the-ground human intervention. It functions as a task force capable of simultaneously collecting and providing critical information for various customer requirements. Each Optimus System, networked as fleet infrastructure, includes a smart airbase enabling automated battery changes for 24/7 operations, along with the automated loading and installation of sensors appropriate for each specified mission.
Optimus drones can cover up to 30 square miles surrounding an airbase and can be tasked to carry specific sensors, thereby enabling each drone within the fleet to execute a variety of tasks. Drones can also be activated for complex longer-term operations with flights overseen by remote operators in a command center.