RIYADH — Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has been awarded the prestigious AS9100 certification, in recognition of its compliance with the quality management systems requirements for aviation, space, and defense. With this achievement, the national champion of military industries localization, SAMI, has joined the elite league of global organizations to obtain the coveted certification. This official recognition was achieved following the successful verification of SAMI’s quality management system to ascertain that it conforms to the AS9100 international standard approved and monitored by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) and the aviation, space, and defense industries. Commenting on the accomplishment, SAMI CEO Eng. Walid Abukhaled said, “We are proud of this new milestone that confirms the compliance of our quality systems with international standards while also demonstrating our industry leadership and excellence. “We are confident that this recognition will give a huge impetus to SAMI’s ongoing endeavors to emerge as a top international defense company. “This achievement is also consistent with PIF’s efforts through SAMI to localize cutting-edge technology and defense systems and build strategic economic partnerships to enhance the capabilities of Saudi Arabia’s military industries sector.” The AS9100 certification follows a thorough review and audit process, including onsite auditor reviews and assessments. Very few companies in the world have obtained this certification, compared to other international quality certifications. — SPA