Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai witnessed a historic milestone in its aviation sector as Calidus Holding Group unveiled the Badr-250 (B-250), the UAE’s first light attack aircraft fully designed, manufactured, and produced by Emirati talent. The reveal took place during the Dubai Airshow 2025 at Dubai World Central, signaling the country’s growing expertise in defence aviation.

The B-250 marks a leap forward in regional military aviation, following its successful maiden flight and completion of rigorous testing and qualification programmes. Built as a multi-role aircraft, it is engineered for combat operations such as close air support (CAS), intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), counterinsurgency (COIN), persistent air support (PAS), and advanced pilot training.

At the heart of the B-250 is a high-strength, lightweight carbon fibre structure, paired with advanced avionics, mission systems, communication tools, and self-protection technologies. It features seven external stores and an EO/IR gimbal for precision targeting.

Powered by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-68 engine delivering 1,600 SHP, the aircraft reaches a maximum speed of 301 knots, can fly up to 2,400 nautical miles depending on configuration, and sustain up to 12 hours of endurance. Its ceiling reaches 30,000 feet, and the pressurized cockpit comes equipped with OBOGS for pilot comfort and safety.

Designed for operational flexibility, the B-250 can carry a payload of approximately 1,800 kg, including a wide variety of weapons, ammunition, smart missiles, and laser-guided bombs. Quick rearming capability ensures the aircraft is mission-ready even in remote or rugged airbases.

This launch reinforces the UAE’s ambition to position itself as a global hub in aviation and defence technology. With a growing portfolio that includes the B-250 trainer (B-250T) and the WX‑80 cloud-seeding aircraft, Calidus continues to expand the nation’s footprint in advanced aerospace systems.

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