Dubai: Calidus Holding Group, a prominent defence and manufacturing company, has entered into a strategic partnership with LIG Nex1, a South Korean Total Defence Company known for its electronic and precision-guided systems. The collaboration aims to manufacture missiles within the United Arab Emirates, which marks a significant development in their cooperative efforts, further enhancing the stature of the national defence industries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was formalized by Tareq Abdul Rahim Al Hosani, Chairman of Calidus Holding Group, and Bon Sang Koo, Chairman of LIG Group. This took place with senior executives from both companies in attendance, during the Dubai Airshow 2025 scheduled from November 17 to 21, 2025.
The newly established joint venture will focus on co-developing next-generation air defence systems and establishing joint production lines. It will also work on nurturing local engineering talent, aligning with the UAE's national strategy to boost indigenous defence manufacturing under the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Additionally, both companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding expressing their intent to explore future cooperation in various air defence systems.
Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, Managing Director and CEO of Calidus Holding Group, remarked that the joint venture is crucial for advancing the UAE's defence manufacturing capabilities. It combines Calidus' industrial expertise with LIG Nex1's proven technologies, establishing a foundation for localised defence solutions that are efficient and globally connected.
Ickhyun Shin, CEO of LIG Nex1, highlighted the significance of this partnership in deepening cooperation and developing advanced local manufacturing capabilities in the UAE. The collaboration aims to deliver innovative defence solutions, strengthening the UAE's industrial defence ecosystem and promoting sustainable technological growth.
These agreements signify a major milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Calidus and LIG Nex1. They pave the way for localised defence production, advanced technology transfer, and future joint development in the UAE, reinforcing the shared interests of both parties.