A Major Milestone in the UAE’s Defence Innovation
Calidus has introduced DAMITA, the first fully Emirati multi-layered counter-drone defence system designed to tackle modern aerial threats. This breakthrough represents a significant evolution in the UAE’s defence landscape, particularly as drone technology advances at unprecedented speed. Built entirely within the country, DAMITA showcases the UAE’s growing ability to design and manufacture high-tech security systems that protect critical infrastructure and national assets.
The rise of artificial intelligence in drone technology has transformed how threats emerge on the battlefield and in civilian environments. Autonomous drones are now capable of intelligent navigation, complex movement patterns, and accurate targeting even in signal-jammed areas. These advancements have made traditional defence methods insufficient, increasing the demand for intelligent, multi-layered systems capable of recognising and neutralising such threats. DAMITA answers this need with a robust, AI-driven architecture that provides fast, accurate, and reliable countermeasures.
A Fully Integrated Emirati Solution
DAMITA is not just another defence tool; it is a comprehensive, unified system that brings together detection, tracking, classification, and neutralisation capabilities. Developed by Calidus Holding Group, the system combines advanced sensors, powerful processing, and multiple defeat mechanisms in one platform. The goal is to protect cities, borders, military bases, and strategic assets from both isolated drone attacks and large-scale swarm threats.
Dr. Khalifa Murad Alblooshi, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Calidus Holding Group, emphasised that DAMITA reflects the company’s role as a national system integrator. According to him, the strength of DAMITA lies in its architecture, which merges detection technologies and layered defence tools under a single AI-driven structure. This approach enables faster decision-making, smoother operation, and enhanced mission readiness. It also highlights Calidus’ long-term commitment to developing autonomous defence systems that are scalable and adaptable.
Why Counter-Drone Solutions Matter More Today
Drone threats have expanded beyond traditional military conflict zones. Today, drones are used for surveillance, espionage, smuggling, and disruptive attacks targeting public gatherings, airports, government facilities, and energy sectors. As these threats continue to evolve, defence organisations worldwide are shifting toward systems that can respond instantly to autonomous and unpredictable drone behaviour.
AI-powered drones pose an especially difficult challenge because they can operate independently without relying on GPS or human handlers. Their ability to adapt mid-flight, avoid obstacles, and perform coordinated swarm attacks makes them harder to counter with conventional solutions. DAMITA addresses these challenges by offering a multi-layered defence strategy that matches the sophistication of the threats.
Advanced Detection Capabilities
One of the core strengths of DAMITA is its ability to detect drones early and accurately. The system integrates a combination of radar systems, full-spectrum radio frequency scanners, electro-optical sensors, and infrared technology. Together, these components allow DAMITA to monitor the airspace in real time with high precision.
The AI algorithms powering the system can distinguish drones from birds, small aircraft, or environmental movements. This reduces false alarms and enhances the reliability of detection. Early identification is crucial when dealing with swarm attacks, and DAMITA’s multi-sensor fusion helps ensure threats are recognised before they reach critical areas.
Layered Defence for Any Threat Scenario
Once a drone is identified, DAMITA provides multiple response options depending on the situation. These layered defeat mechanisms serve both soft-kill and hard-kill requirements.
Electronic Jamming
DAMITA can disrupt the communication links between drones and their operators. This soft-kill method forces drones to lose control, malfunction, or land safely without causing unintended damage.
High-Energy Laser System
For immediate response scenarios, the system uses a powerful laser capable of destroying airborne threats with precision. The laser operates on battery power, allowing instant engagement without reliance on heavy external power sources. This technology ensures rapid neutralisation while reducing collateral risk.
Air Burst Interceptors
When dealing with large or coordinated drone swarms, DAMITA employs air burst interceptors. These interceptors deliver a hard-kill solution, targeting multiple drones at once to quickly halt an attack. This is particularly effective against aggressive or fast-moving threats.
Designed for Modern Operational Needs
DAMITA is engineered to perform in demanding environments and under varying conditions. Its operational features are tailored to ensure maximum efficiency, mobility, and reliability.
High Interception Rate
The system can neutralise up to twenty drones per minute, making it suitable for high-intensity scenarios and mass-drone assaults.
On-the-Move Operation
DAMITA supports vehicle-mounted deployment, allowing continuous operation even when the system is on the move. This ensures uninterrupted surveillance and defence during military missions or mobile border patrols.
Autonomous Mission Capability
With AI-driven processing at its core, DAMITA minimises the need for human intervention. The autonomous architecture analyses threats, prioritises responses, and triggers the appropriate defence mechanism with minimal delay. This reduces reaction time and boosts overall mission success.
Enhancing National Security and Future Readiness
The launch of DAMITA marks a strategic milestone for the UAE. As drone warfare becomes more frequent and technologically complex, nations need reliable systems that can adapt quickly. By developing its own counter-drone technologies, the UAE strengthens its sovereignty and reduces dependency on foreign defence systems.
DAMITA also positions the UAE as a forward-thinking leader in autonomous defence innovation. The system’s AI-integrated design, modular architecture, and multi-layered capabilities showcase the country’s commitment to advancing its defence industry and securing its future.
Beyond military usage, DAMITA can support civilian protection. Airports, power plants, oil facilities, and major public events are increasingly vulnerable to drone intrusions. With DAMITA, authorities gain a powerful tool to secure these environments with precision and speed.
A New Era of Emirati Defence Technology
DAMITA is more than a technological achievement. It is a reflection of the UAE’s vision for innovation-driven security solutions. By combining local manufacturing, advanced research, and autonomous technologies, Calidus has created a system that meets the current and future demands of national defence. The introduction of DAMITA reinforces the UAE’s growing role in shaping next-generation defence strategies and protecting critical assets in a rapidly changing world.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read Next – New DIFC–Emirates NBD Alliance Boosts UHNW Family Wealth
