Havelsan, one of the leading companies in the Turkish defense industry, has taken a significant step in pilot training for the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The company has enhanced the country’s aviation capabilities by equipping the UAE’s B-250 aircraft with an advanced training system developed by Turkish engineers.
Havelsan’s Ground Training System to Be Used in the UAE
Havelsan CEO Mehmet Akif Nacar announced at the IDEX 2025 Defense Exhibition in Abu Dhabi that the UAE’s B-250 aircraft will use Havelsan’s ground training system. This development once again highlights Turkey’s growing international influence in defense technologies.
Tactical Command and Control System Integrated into Armored Vehicles
It was also reported that an armored vehicle belonging to the UAE has been integrated with a tactical command and control system developed by Havelsan. This system enhances battlefield management capabilities, maximizing operational efficiency.
Strategic Collaboration at IDEX 2025
At IDEX 2025, a global hub for defense industry collaborations, Havelsan and UAE-based Calidus further strengthened their partnership. The two companies collaborated on developing a Ground-Based Training System for the B-250 aircraft to boost pilot training efficiency through advanced simulation technologies.
Additionally, Havelsan and Calidus worked together on a tactical command and control system for the AL WASHAQ 4×4 unmanned ground vehicle. Designed by Turkish engineers, this system aims to improve situational awareness and operational effectiveness.
Expanding Defense Cooperation with the UAE
Havelsan CEO Mehmet Akif Nacar emphasized that projects with the UAE will expand further in the future, stating, “Beyond these two projects, we are negotiating additional defense initiatives. We anticipate formalizing more agreements by the end of this year.”
Highlighting the importance of the B-250 training system, Nacar said, “We have developed a state-of-the-art ground-based training system that will elevate the training process for UAE pilots. Our simulator offers full 360-degree motion capability and an immersive experience with augmented reality integration.”
The Global Rise of Turkish Defense Technology
Nacar underscored Turkey’s growing strength in the international defense industry, saying, “Years ago, the operational effectiveness of our products was questioned at defense exhibitions. Today, we confidently list the countries using our systems and prove our impact.”
Havelsan Expands into Civil Aviation
Beyond military applications, Havelsan is also making significant strides in the civil aviation sector. The company exported an Airbus A320 Full Flight Simulator (FFS) to France-based Simaero for use in a training center in India.
With this agreement, Havelsan’s next-generation flight simulator has started being used in three major aviation training institutions, including Turkish Airlines and the International Flight Training Center (IFTC). The company also signed a new agreement with IFTC to supply Airbus A320 NEO/CEO flight simulators.
Havelsan’s global successes in both defense and civil aviation not only reinforce Turkey’s position in technology exports but also bring innovative solutions developed by Turkish engineers to the global stage.
