Dubai: Calidus Holding Group, a prominent player in the defence and manufacturing sector, has announced the launch of the Badr-250 (B-250) light attack aircraft, marking a significant achievement as the first aircraft of its kind to be fully developed and manufactured in the UAE by Emirati expertise. The announcement was made during the ongoing Dubai Airshow 2025, hosted at Dubai World Central until 21st November.
According to Emirates News Agency, this development represents a pivotal moment in the regional aviation industry, following the B-250's successful completion of qualification requirements, core testing programmes, and its maiden flight. The B-250 is a versatile aircraft featuring advanced, high-precision technologies and systems, designed to undertake a range of missions including close air support, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, persistent air support, counterinsurgency, alongside basic and advanced training.
Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Calidus Holding Group, expressed pride in launching the first light attack aircraft entirely developed by Calidus. He highlighted the aircraft as a testament to the UAE's leadership in designing and producing advanced aviation systems that meet global standards. Alblooshi emphasized that this milestone aligns with the national leadership's vision to empower the UAE's defence industry and establish the country as a prominent global hub in this sector.
Alblooshi further elaborated on the aircraft's unique design, noting its carbon fibre structure which provides a combination of reduced weight and enhanced strength. The B-250 is equipped with cutting-edge systems, including next-generation avionics, mission, communication, and self-protection systems, along with seven external stores and an EO/IR gimbal.
Powered by a Pratt and Whitney PT6A-68 engine, the B-250 offers a maximum horizontal speed of 301 knots, with an endurance of up to 12 hours and a range of up to 2,400 nautical miles, depending on its configuration. It is capable of reaching a maximum altitude of 30,000 feet. The aircraft also features a pressurised cockpit equipped with OBOGS and supports an external payload of approximately 1,800 kg.
The B-250 can be outfitted with a diverse array of weapons, ammunition, smart missiles, and laser-guided bombs, allowing for precise targeting. Its design facilitates rapid rearming post-landing, even on rugged terrains. Calidus continues to expand its portfolio of advanced aviation systems, which includes the B-250T trainer aircraft and the WX-80 cloud-seeding and weather research aircraft.