Calidus, a leading UAE-based defence manufacturing company, has signed a strategic agreement with AEQ, a global leader in aircraft munitions and electronic fuzetechnology. This partnership will establish an advanced aircraft munitions and fuze-manufacturing facility in the UAE. Along with its own insensitive explosive filling facility, these capabilities will significantly enhance the UAE’s defence industry and support the country’s ongoing efforts to build self-sufficiency in critical defence technologies.
The new facility will focus on the production of high-precision Aircraft munitions and fuze systems, which are essential components for a wide range of military applications. The collaboration between Calidus and AEQ aims to secure these critical elements in the UAE’s strategic supply chain while contributing to the country’s vision of achieving greater autonomy and technological sovereignty in defence manufacturing.
“This partnership with AEQ is a major milestone in Calidus’ mission to strengthen the UAE’s defence manufacturing sector,” said H.E Dr. Khalifa Murad Al Blooshi, Managing Director and CEO of CalidusHolding. “Establishing this munitions manufacturing capability, insensitive explosive filling facility, and its associated fuze manufacturing facility, will not only meet UAE’s national security needs but will also enable us to provide world-class, locally produced solutions for our armed forces and regional partners.”
AEQ, with its renowned expertise in the advanced manufacturing processes, will bring state-of-the-art systems to the UAE, ensuring the production of the highest-quality munitions, insensitive explosive filling and fuze systems that meet the demands of modern warfare. This collaboration will enhance the UAE’s operational readiness and contribute to the broader security objectives of the region.
“We are excited to join forces with Calidus to establish this munition and insensitive explosive filling and fuze-manufacturing facility in the UAE,” said Ms Sanem Mutafoglu, AEQ’s Global CEO. “This strategic venture aligns with our mission to deliver cutting-edge solutions that support local defence capabilities while expanding our footprint in the MENA region. Together, we will provide the UAE with critical munitions and fuze systems, reinforcing its national security and self-sufficiency.”
The Calidus – AEQ facilities, are set to immediately commence production with the objective of delivering locally manufactured product by end of Q3 2025. Major facilities are currently under construction and shall adhere to the highest standards of precision, quality, and safety in the manufacturing of munitions, explosive filling and electronic fuze systems. The collaboration will also create opportunities for the development of a highly skilled workforce, with a focus on training Emiratis in advanced manufacturing techniques.
