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IDEX 2025: Bombardier Defense eyes demand uptick with Challenger and Global platforms

17th February 2025 - 06:15 GMT | by Lucy Powell in Abu Dhabi

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The Global 6500 has proven to be a popular choice for countries to missionise for the needs of their defence forces . (Photo: Bombardier)

The Canadian jet manufacturer is anticipating a opening date for its new UAE service facility in the near future as well as getting ready to welcome its Global 8000 jet into service by the end of the year.

Bombardier has said its defence arm has seen its “strong” presence in the Middle East only grow in the last year – a boost for the manufacturer during IDEX in Abu Dhabi this week.

Speaking to Shephard, Mena Saad, director of programmes for Bombardier Defense, said that it had recently “seen a lot of volume come through” for its services and that its work within the region would “just get bigger with time”.

According to Bombardier, the manufacturer has around 150 to 160 aircraft in the Middle East, with the number split between defence and civilian aircraft.

While the split

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Author

Lucy Powell

Lucy Powell is Shephard’s Air Reporter. She has spent the last two years reporting …

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