Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) has announced a new training program for aerospace technicians in the United Arab Emirates. The Abu Dhabi-based company is partnering with Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, which will provide the training at its main campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The program is intended to provide comprehensive maintenance training for UAE citizens preparing to work for GAL itself or the country’s armed forces. This will include specialization in aircraft maintenance or electronics, as well as English language transition.

The partnership may be extended to cover other technical fields, such as non-destructive testing, pilot training and bachelor degree programs. “We are honored that GAL has chosen Spartan from a number of international competitors to be their lead aviation technician trainer,” commented Spartan CEO Peter Harris. “We expect this agreement to develop into a long-term relationship as we open the training pipeline for UAE aviation students.”

“The deep level of experience that Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology provides is unparalleled and GAL’s sponsorship of the program highlights our commitment to Emiratization and strengthening the UAE’s defense industry,” said GAL chief executive Abdulla Murad Al Balooshi. GAL is expanding its role as a provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

EDIC On Show

GAL is among eight subsidiaries of the Emirates Defence Industries Company (EDIC) exhibiting here at the Dubai Airshow this week (Stand 700). Sister companies include another military MRO provider AMMROC, autonomous systems specialist ADASI and manufacturer Tawazun Precision Industries.

EDIC was formed earlier this year, following a restructuring of Abu Dhabi-government-backed defense holdings. The process saw the new group acquire several companies previously controlled by the Tawazun and Mubadala groups. It is led by former Thales chairman Luc Vigneron, who is now its CEO.