Siemens Energy redesigns Gulf power plants to withstand drone attacks

Siemens Energy, a German industrial group, is modifying power plants in the Gulf region to protect them from drone and missile attacks, inspired by the experiences in Ukraine during the ongoing Iran war. Managing Director Hussein Shoukry addressed The National at Adipec in Abu Dhabi, stating that securing energy infrastructure is now considered equivalent to ensuring national security.

The company is collaborating with local customers to reinforce existing facilities and even contemplate relocating certain components of new power plants underground. While these security measures come at a high cost, Shoukry emphasized their necessity, citing the damage inflicted on other nations when their energy infrastructure was targeted.

The security concerns extend beyond the Gulf, as countries like Poland and Germany are also evaluating the resilience of their electricity systems. Siemens Energy, which supplies gas turbines, power generation equipment, and grid technology, operates in the Middle East and Africa, with a substantial presence in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The company now employs over 4,000 people in 29 offices across the region and has secured €9 billion in orders in its 2025 financial year. Looking ahead, the region is expected to witness a significant increase in electricity demand, driven by industrial expansion, population growth, and electrification, necessitating a 50% rise in power generation capacity over the next five to six years.

Siemens Energy is actively addressing these challenges by exploring new manufacturing strategies, investing in local engineering talent, and expanding its footprint in Saudi Arabia. Renewable energy projects, viewed as a more secure alternative to centralised power stations, remain a priority for the company despite the ongoing conflict.