UAE defence company Calidus Aerospace LLC and L3Harris Technologies are partnering to expand airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capacity for mission systems operations in the UAE, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and additional global markets.

The companies recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop exportable, multi-mission Calidus B-250 and other future platforms with mission solutions. Additionally, the companies aim to pursue MRO and mission system integration opportunities on other fixed-wing, rotary-wing and UAS systems.

Calidus selected L3Harris in 2021 as a key partner for developing multiple B-250 mission system kits uniquely customised for the UAE’s B-250 mission, featuring L3Harris’ Mission Management software solution; electro-optical/infrared imaging system; digital video data link; advanced multichannel airborne networking radio and other aircraft avionics products. L3Harris recently delivered the first of the 12 kits to Calidus for integration into the aircraft.

“L3Harris is a key partner in our B-250 project and this MOU is a welcome step forward in growing the partnership in other related avenues. The collaboration would positively contribute towards providing a wider spectrum of solutions for the regional market, while ensuring capability development for Calidus Aerospace as the leading UAE National Aviation Technology company,” said Khalifa AlBlooshi, Calidus Aerospace CEO.

“L3Harris is committed to Calidus for the successful completion of the B-250 programme and the vital capability this provides to the UAE Air Force. This partnership positions us to launch an international business with Calidus in the UAE and MENA region and further expand our airborne ISR portfolio.” said David Cotham, General Manager, ForceX, L3Harris.