EDGE has completed its purchase of a controlling stake in Italian propulsion maker CMD S.r.l., expanding its European industrial base as the Abu Dhabi group targets unmanned and maritime markets, Gulf News reported Oct. 26.
The deal follows an agreement reached in May at CMD’s facility in Atella, southern Italy, and was signed in Rome, Gulf News said. Founded by the Negri family in 1989, CMD develops propulsion systems for automotive, marine and aeronautical applications and has more than 35 years of piston-engine manufacturing experience.
EDGE plans to increase CMD’s production capacity and research activity. Engines for EDGE’s unmanned aircraft are a priority, while discussions continue on potential high-volume orders. EDGE is assessing maritime uses for CMD engines with Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) and other partners; CMD plans to maintain its automotive relationships and expand that business.
CMD’s current owners will keep a substantial minority holding and stay involved in management. EDGE and the shareholders will develop an integration plan aimed at combining the companies’ industrial strengths while preserving CMD’s technical expertise, Gulf News reported.
The transaction adds to EDGE’s European industrial platform, which Gulf News said launched in Paris in June 2026. The approach involves developing technology and employing talent in Europe while working with established companies to strengthen regional industrial capacity. EDGE also signed a memorandum of understanding with Italy’s Basilicata Region in June covering industrial cooperation, knowledge exchange and talent development in CMD’s operating area.
EDGE Managing Director and CEO Hamad Al Marar said the group intends to support CMD’s expansion through investment in its people, facilities and technology. CMD Chief Executive Officer Mariano Negri said combining the company’s engineering expertise with EDGE’s industrial capacity would support growth across its business. The companies’ integration planning and continuing order discussions are the next steps identified in the report.
