EDGE has completed the first dynamic firing test of a UAE-designed 155mm extended-range artillery projectile.
The projectile, known as the Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB), was designed and manufactured in-house by LAHAB, EDGE’s medium- and large-calibre ammunition producer.
During the trial, rounds fired from a 52-calibre barrel followed their predicted trajectories and landed within the target area, showing consistent grouping and tight dispersion.
The test assessed the projectile’s compatibility with weapons built to the Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding standard. It also checked whether measured chamber pressures matched theoretical values, whether actual impact points aligned with predictions, and whether the projectile’s components remained structurally sound.
“Artillery ammunition has become the clearest test of whether a country can supply itself, and building this capability in the UAE means our customers are not waiting in someone else’s production queue,” EDGE president of missiles & weapons Saif Al Dahbashi said.
The next phase will involve arena testing to measure the projectile’s effectiveness, followed by qualification against Military Standard requirements and NATO Standardization Agreement 4224. The program must still demonstrate safety and suitability for service.
The effort is part of HAZEEM, EDGE’s program to develop a range of artillery ammunition manufactured entirely in the UAE.
EDGE Expands Ammunition Capabilities
EDGE is scaling up its domestic ammunition production in the UAE.
Its automated 40mm grenade ammunition line has reached full-rate production, with an annual capacity of up to 1.5 million rounds. The facility automates the manufacturing process, from cartridge case and projectile assembly to final assembly and belting.
A real-time monitoring system tracks production performance and output, allowing operators to detect problems during operations. The investment forms part of EDGE’s efforts to strengthen the UAE’s domestic defense manufacturing base.
