Dassault Systèmes sees Middle East prioritising digitech in aerospace development strategies

The company, whose 3DEXPERIENCE platform was used by Abu Dhabi’s advanced technology company Calidus to develop its B-250 military light attack multi-role aircraft, says the drive to local aerospace competency will fuel demand for digital technology and change the face of future aerospace markets.

“In the Middle East, we are now witnessing many new programs for aircraft development and newly established aerospace suppliers.  For them, digital technology is not just a tool to design, develop and build their products, but a strategic advantage.  Dassault Systèmes 3DEXPERIENCE platform enables them to adopt new capabilities, coordinate resources, integrate new business processes, and improve productivity and innovation.  As a result, within the next couple of decades, the competitive landscape in most major aerospace market segments will look very different than it does now,” said Philippe Forestier, Executive Vice President, Global Affairs and Communities, Dassault Systèmes.

Calidus’ B-250 is the first multi-role capability military aircraft wholly developed in the United Arab Emirates.  Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform was used by the Abu Dhabi teams to virtually design, develop and optimize two prototypes within two-years in readiness for its roll out at the recent Dubai Air Show.  

“Its single source of data and integrated applications accelerated Calidus’ design process and streamlined the company’s project collaboration both internally and externally with its suppliers,” said Forestier.

The B-250 is seen as a major landmark in UAE defence aviation industry history. Calidus says it will soon begin building the turbo prop at an industrial complex in Al Ain – the emirate’s second city and home to the Nibras Aerospace Park being jointly developed by Mubadala and Abu Dhabi Airport Company. While Calidus designed the aircraft in partnership with worldwide suppliers, including Rockwell Collins, it owns the intellectual property rights to the B-250.