UAE and Trkiye Sign Defense Cooperation Agreements at SAHA EXPO 2024

ISTANBUL: Calidus Aerospace, a member of the Emirates Defence Companies Council, has entered into strategic collaboration agreements with Turkish defense firms ASELSAN and HAVELSAN. The agreements were formalized on the first day of the SAHA EXPO 2024 in Istanbul, marking a significant step in enhancing defense cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Trkiye in advanced defense technologies. According to Emirates News Agency, the signing ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Mohamed bin Fadhil Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of State for Defence Affairs; Haluk Gorgun, Secretary of Defence Industries (SSB); and Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairwoman of the Emirates Defence Companies Council (EDCC). The agreements were signed by Dr. Khalifa AlBlooshi, CEO of Calidus; Ahmet Akyol, President and CEO of ASELSAN; and Mehmet Akif Nacar, CEO of HAVELSAN. The collaboration aims to promote joint innovation in delivering cutting-edge solutions that address current and future operational needs for cockp it display systems on airborne platforms and advanced training systems. Under the agreement, ASELSAN is set to provide advanced cockpit display solutions for Calidus' airborne platforms, focusing on joint production, technological innovation, and upgrading rotary and fixed-wing aircraft. The partnership will target comprehensive cockpit modernization projects. HAVELSAN will deliver ground-based training solutions for Calidus platforms, aiming to develop systems that meet both current needs and future platform requirements. Dr. Khalifa AlBlooshi highlighted the importance of these partnerships in localizing defense technology within the UAE and enhancing domestic capabilities by integrating global innovations. AlBlooshi stated that collaboration with industry leaders like ASELSAN and HAVELSAN cements Calidus' role at the forefront of defense and aerospace innovation, contributing to the UAE's strategic goals. The company aims to enhance its manufacturing and technological capabilities, aspiring to compete wi th major global companies in its field.