Türkiye’s defence technology leader, Havelsan, has solidified a strategic partnership with UAE-based Calidus to develop an advanced training ecosystem for the B-250 light attack and trainer aircraft. The agreement, signed at IDEF 2025 in July, builds upon an earlier protocol established during SAHA EXPO 2023, marking a significant step in defence collaboration between the two nations.
The partnership will see Havelsan integrate its cutting-edge simulation and training systems into Calidus’s facilities in the UAE. These systems will provide pilots with comprehensive training across all phases of flight, ensuring they are fully prepared before entering the cockpit. The B-250, a versatile light attack and trainer aircraft, will benefit from this advanced ecosystem, enhancing pilot readiness and operational effectiveness.
“This project reflects our vision of developing human-centred, integrated, and reliable systems that prepare pilots for unexpected conditions,” said Dr. Mehmet Akif Nacar, CEO of Havelsan. His remarks underscore Havelsan’s commitment to innovation and its focus on creating solutions that prioritise human performance and adaptability.
For Calidus, the collaboration represents a leap forward in training capabilities. “Havelsan’s expertise will deliver modern and future-oriented training solutions,” said Dr. Khalifa Murad Al Balooshi, CEO of Calidus. “This partnership marks the foundation of a long-term strategic relationship built on trust and innovation.”
Beyond the immediate delivery of training systems, the B-250 training ecosystem is positioned as a model project that merges technology and strategy in aviation training. The collaboration not only strengthens Calidus’s operational readiness but also reinforces Türkiye’s growing influence in the global defence market, particularly in advanced simulation and training technologies.
This partnership comes at a time when defence cooperation between Türkiye and the UAE is expanding, reflecting broader trends in regional security and technological advancement. As both nations invest in next-generation training solutions, the B-250 ecosystem could set a new standard for pilot preparation, blending cutting-edge simulation with strategic foresight.
For Türkiye, the deal further cements its reputation as a key player in defence exports, particularly in areas where simulation and human-centred design are critical. As the defence sector continues to evolve, such partnerships will be instrumental in shaping the future of military training and operational readiness.