IN a unique project of its kind, EADS (European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company) together with Saudi construction company Al Rashid has been awarded one of the largest security projects in the Middle East, construction of a security fence around Saudi Arabia at a cost of $3.5 billion.
The 9,000-km border fence through mountains, deserts and sea borders will provide visibility and operational awareness to Saudi Border Guard by the use of cutting-edge technology which includes installation of sophisticated radar systems along the extensive border.
Al Rashid will partner with EADS Defence & Security division for the construction works.
Saudi Arabia has borders with Iraq, Jordan, Yemen, Oman, UAE, Qatar and Kuwait, and the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
EADS Defence & Security chief executive officer Stefan Zoller said: “We are very pleased to have earned the trust and the confidence of the Saudi government. We are committed to dedicate all our capacities and capabilities to deliver this programme on time and in the quality our customer expects. That includes also long-term investments in the country.”
Many other defense and security majors were in the race to win the $3.5-billion contract including France’s Thales, Britain’s BAE Systems and US defense contractor Raytheon.