UAE's first light attack aircraft on show at Idex

UAE made B-250 aircraft on display at the International Defence Exhibtion in Abu Dhabi.-Photo by Ryan Lim/ Khaleej Times

The UAE's first locally made light attack aircraft - which has been flying across Al Ain skies as part of its tests - is on show at the International Defence Exhibition (Idex) in Abu Dhabi.
Calidus, a defence-technology development firm in Abu Dhabi, on February 18, unveiled the details of its new Wahash infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) and reported its progress in the development of its B-250 light attack aircraft.
The B-250, which is now being tested in Al Ain, will be the first light attack aircraft manufactured in the UAE.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, got a feel of the aircraft and sat in the cockpit during his Idex visit on February 18.
Designed specifically for the asymmetric warfare theatres of the 21^st century, the B-250 incorporates a ground-breaking carbon fibre structure, engineered to deliver best-in-class versatility and transportability at low operating costs.
"As a fast-growing defence-technology pioneer based in Abu Dhabi, Calidus is working to strengthen the capabilities of the UAE defence industry," said Abdulla Alsayed Alhashmi, senior vice-president of Calidus.
"Our products fill an important need among many military forces for solutions that are both cutting-edge and cost-effective. This is our message and Idex 2019 provides an ideal platform from which to share it.
"The Calidus team has made tremendous strides in the past four years since our foundation. These milestones are a tribute to their hard work."
The official noted that Calidus' team of engineers and designers in Abu Dhabi is further developing the capabilities of the B-250.
The plane has multi-role capabilities for modern and asymmetrical warfare, including close air support, counter-insurgency and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
"It can also serve as a basic and advanced trainer. The B-250 has received significant interest from regional and international buyers," said Alhashmi.
Calidus has built a global network of suppliers as part of the B-250 effort, including Collins Aerospace of the US, Martin-Baker of the UK, Pratt and Whitney Canada, and Halcon Systems of Abu Dhabi.
As the firm broadens the scope of its offerings, the new Wahash infantry fighting vehicle provides a land-based product to add to its arsenal.
Idex visitors who are dropping by Calidus' booth will be able to get a first-hand look at the B-250 and the Wahash.
The B-250
>First light attack aircraft manufactured in the UAE
>Designed for asymmetric warfare
>Incorporates ground-breaking carbon fibre structure
>Highly versatile, transportable
>Generates low operating costs
>Has multi-role capabilities (close air support, counter-insurgency and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance)
ismail@khaleejtimes.com