Calidus Holding Group unveiled the Badr-250 (B-250) light attack aircraft, the first of its kind to be fully designed and manufactured in the UAE by Emirati expertise, during the Dubai Airshow 2025 at Dubai World Central.
The aircraft’s launch marks a significant milestone in the nation’s aviation and defence industry.
The B-250 completed all qualification requirements, core testing programmes, and its maiden flight ahead of the unveiling. It is a multi-role aircraft capable of close air support, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, persistent air support, counterinsurgency missions, and both basic and advanced pilot training.
Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, Managing Director and CEO of Calidus, described the launch as a demonstration of Emirati innovation and leadership in advanced aviation systems. He highlighted that the aircraft aligns with national goals to strengthen the UAE’s defence industry and establish the country as a global aviation hub.
Constructed with a lightweight carbon fibre structure, the B-250 features next-generation avionics, mission systems, communication and self-protection systems, seven external stores, and an EO/IR gimbal. It is powered by a Pratt and Whitney PT6A-68 engine delivering 1,600 SHP, achieving a maximum speed of 301 knots, a ceiling of 30,000 feet, endurance of up to 12 hours, and a range of up to 2,400 nautical miles.
The aircraft can carry approximately 1,800 kilograms of external payload and is compatible with a variety of weapons, including smart missiles and laser-guided bombs. Its design allows rapid rearming even on rugged airfields, enhancing operational flexibility.
Calidus also produces the B-250T trainer aircraft and the WX-80 cloud-seeding and weather research aircraft, reinforcing its position as a leading developer of advanced aviation solutions in the region.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
