Defence http://www.timesaerospace.aero/ en Sun, 16 Feb 2025 08:17:04 +0000 IDEX and NAVDEX kicks off in Abu Dhabi http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/idex-and-navdex-kicks-off-in-abu-dhabi

Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council, the events will bring together leading global companies and experts in the defence industry to showcase the latest technologies and solutions in the sector, aimed at enhancing international peace and security. 

Major General Staff Mubarak Saeed bin Gafan Al Jabri, Deputy Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, added: “Over the years, both exhibitions have witnessed significant expansion in the number of local and international participants, alongside an increase in announced deals and the number of official delegations. Additionally, the International Defence Conference 2025 will set a new record by hosting more than 1,800 participants, marking a 414% increase since its launch in 2015. This growth reflects the rising importance of strategic dialogue in shaping the future of defence.”

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, managing director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, revealed that the 2025 edition of IDEX and NAVDEX has seen an increase in participating companies, reaching 1,565 from 65 countries, reflecting a 16% growth compared to the previous edition. The total exhibition space has expanded by 10% to 181,501 square metres, while 731 new companies are participating, marking an 82% increase.

Visitors to NAVDEX will also have a front-row view of the latest maritime technologies and capabilities in action at the grandstand overlooking the waterfront.

It will feature a display of naval fleets from eight nations, including the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the Republic of Korea (South Korea), and the Republic of India.

Commodore Rashed Ibrahim Rashed Al-Muhaisni, Chairman of the Maritime Committee of NAVDEX, said: “We take great pride in being the global focal point for thousands of high-profile figures and decision-makers from around the world, all gathering to participate in IDEX and NAVDEX.”

NAVDEX will also feature NAVDEX Talks, a series of lectures and panel discussions where experts and specialists will explore emerging trends, present real-world case studies, and highlight the latest advancements in naval defence technology.

Posted date
First paragraph

The 17th edition of IDEX and  the 8th edition of NAVDEX has commenced in Abu Dhabi showcasing the latest defence solutions from international companies.

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Sun, 16 Feb 2025 08:17:04 +0000 eNethersole 69553 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
Boeing to showcase its defence solutions at IDEX 2025 http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/boeing-to-showcase-its-defence-solutions-at-idex-2025

“IDEX is a key opportunity to engage with partners across the region and showcase how our advanced defence solutions can support the country’s security and aerospace ambitions,” said Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia. “Our commitment to the UAE spans more than four decades, and we look forward to deepening collaboration through pioneering industrial and technological initiatives and further contributing to the growing domestic defence industrial base.”

At IDEX 2025, among the products being highlighted include:

T-7 Advanced Trainer – Next-generation pilot training system with fighter-like performance.

AH-64 Apache – Advanced, combat-proven attack helicopter, evolving for continued battlefield dominance.

CH-47 Chinook – Multi-mission heavy-lift helicopter with advanced digital cockpit and cargo handling capabilities.

F-15EX – The backbone of tactical fighter fleets with increased payload capacity, advanced electronic warfare system and the world’s most powerful fighter radar.

Insitu Integrator ER – Long-range uncrewed system for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. 

Boeing will also showcase its services portfolio, including performance-based logistics support, parts, modifications and modernisation, upgrades, and training. These offerings are designed to support the defence modernisation and mission readiness of customers in the UAE and the Middle East.

Posted date
First paragraph

Boeing will present its advanced defence and security capabilities and services at the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi Feb. 17-21.

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:57:43 +0000 eNethersole 69547 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
BlackSky announced as Supporting Sponsor for IDEX Talks http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/blacksky-announced-as-supporting-sponsor-for-idex-talks

The event will take place from February 17 to 21 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.

IDEX & NAVDEX Talks, which debuted during the previous edition of IDEX and NAVDEX, added a new dimension to the event by fostering high level dialogue and thought leadership. This year’s edition will bring together prominent industry leaders, including officials from military organisations, innovators, international policymakers, and business leaders to address key challenges and opportunities in the defence sector, focusing on innovation, strategy, and global collaboration. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions, participate in Q&A sessions, and network with industry experts, shaping the future of military operations, international security, and technological advancement.

Saeed Al Mansoori, Advisor Military & Defence Shows at ADNEC Group, said: “BlackSky's involvement as a supporting sponsor of IDEX & NAVDEX Talks highlights our shared vision for strengthening collaboration and accelerating innovation in the defence industry. Their expertise in delivering real-time geospatial intelligence aligns with the forward-thinking spirit of IDEX and NAVDEX. These events showcase ADNEC Group’s commitment to establishing Abu Dhabi as a global hub for defence, supporting key sectors, and driving economic diversification in line with our leadership’s vision.”

Andy Stephenson, senior vice president of global sales for BlackSky, said: “We are thrilled to participate in the largest edition of IDEX and NAVDEX, as this global platform offers an exceptional opportunity to engage with defence and security leaders, showcase our cutting-edge capabilities, and contribute to shaping the future of the industry. Our partnership with ADNEC Group reflects our commitment to fostering international collaboration and leveraging advanced technology to address the complex challenges faced by modern defence sectors. We look forward to sharing our insights on real-time geospatial intelligence and exploring new avenues for innovation and strategic growth within the global defence community.”

Posted date
First paragraph

ADNEC Group has announced that BlackSky Holdings, a space-based intelligence company, will be a supporting sponsor for IDEX Talks during the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX).

Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Thu, 13 Feb 2025 07:49:31 +0000 eNethersole 69545 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
Denel launches new missiles and UAS http://www.timesaerospace.aero/features/defence/denel-launches-new-missiles-and-uas

Denel launches new missiles and UAS

IMAGE: SAAF

South African defence conglomerate Denel has announced significant developments in two of its business areas – uncrewed vehicles and air-to-air missiles.

Denel has unveiled a rotary-wing uncrewed air system (RW-UAS) suitable for operating from either land or naval vessels. The helicopter-like craft is designed for the surveillance role, with a variety of sensors.

According to local reports, these include a high-definition colour television camera, together with a thermal imaging camera, plus a laser rangefinder and designator, making it suitable for finding and targeting enemy assets.

Denel failed to respond to African Aerospace enquiries about the new system, but according to specialist South African defence website DefenceWeb, the RW-UAS is 5.9m long, with a five-bladed rotor diameter of 6m, a choice of turbocharged petrol or diesel engines giving it a maximum speed of 200km/h and a maximum endurance, in standard configuration, of up to 10 hours.

For potential buyers seeking a more advanced sensor fit, RW-UAS can carry an optional radar sensor that offers synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) imagery as well as ground moving object indicator imagery.

This makes it suitable for aerial mapping of enemy formations. However, Denel seems initially to be aiming the new aircraft at civilian tasks, such as law enforcement, power line inspections and border patrol.

Denel has also begun deliveries to the South African Air Force (SAAF) of its long-delayed A-Darter agile short-range air-to-air missile. Initial training rounds should have been delivered by the time African Aerospace appears, with an initial batch of live rounds scheduled for delivery in spring 2025.

The missiles are destined to provide a new capability for the SAAF’s Saab Gripen C/D fighter aircraft.

Denel began development of the A-Darter as long ago as 2006, but a long list of problems, notably a chronic lack of funding and the subsequent loss of skilled technical personnel, has repeatedly delayed service entry of the fifth-generation infrared guided missile.

A-Darter has a notably short range – just 7km – but this is partially offset by its large ‘off-boreshot’ capability; that is, it can be fired at a target anywhere within a 180-degree arc from the launch aircraft’s heading.

Alan Dron

Alan Dron

Alan Dron is air transport editor at Arabian Aerospace for which he has written since its launch.

Article Also Filed in:
Top story
Off
Redirected
Off
Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:37:33 +0000 pIvanova 69541 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
Global attention turns to IDEX and NAVDEX next week http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/global-attention-turns-to-idex-and-navdex-next-week

The 17th edition of IDEX, the 8th edition of NAVDEX, and the accompanying International Defence Conference, organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council, will bring together leading global companies, decision-makers, and experts in the defence industry to showcase the latest technologies and solutions in the sector, aimed at enhancing international peace and security. 

Major General Staff Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of IDEX and NAVDEX, stated: "This edition of IDEX and NAVDEX marks a milestone in the 32-year journey of success, garnering unprecedented global attention, which underscores its growing influence in the defence and security sector. This success would not have been possible without the visionary leadership and unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. His guidance has firmly established the UAE as a leading regional and international hub in the defence and security fields." 

He added: "IDEX and NAVDEX provide a global platform that brings together decision-makers and experts to explore the latest advancements in defence technology and innovation. These exhibitions play a pivotal role in strengthening international security and fostering global peace. This edition has attracted the participation of major global defence companies, high-level delegations, and industry specialists, further underscoring the strategic significance of these exhibitions and their role in shaping the future of the global defence industry."

Major General Staff Mubarak Saeed bin Gafan Al Jabri, Deputy Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, added: “Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has become a landmark event in the global defence sector, directly contributing to enhancing the UAE’s position as a key player in this field. NAVDEX stands as a testament to our commitment to innovation and sustainable security, showcasing the rapid advancements in maritime technologies and serving as a leading platform for presenting the latest defence solutions in the naval sector.” 

He added: “Over the years, both exhibitions have witnessed significant expansion in the number of local and international participants, alongside an increase in announced deals and the number of official delegations. Additionally, the International Defence Conference 2025 will set a new record by hosting more than 1,800 participants, marking a 414% increase since its launch in 2015. This growth reflects the rising importance of strategic dialogue in shaping the future of defence.”

Al Jabri revealed that the organising committee, in collaboration with ADNEC Group, the Tawazun Council, and relevant entities, has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure the fulfilment of the expectations of guests and official delegations while providing a seamless and integrated experience for participants and visitors.

He noted that critical topics such as cybersecurity, space security, and defence readiness will be addressed, with experts presenting practical solutions to enhance resilience and effective responses to global challenges. Discussions will also focus on how advanced technology and international collaboration are reshaping modern defence systems, with the UAE playing a leading role in driving this transformation on a global scale.

The Deputy Chairman further highlighted that the event is not only about technical showcases and commercial deals but also aims to build sustainable strategic partnerships, foster trust, and enhance international cooperation in defence and security. This commitment aligns with the UAE’s vision to support innovation, economic diversification, and cement its position as a global leader in the defence industry. Through IDEX and NAVDEX 2025, the UAE seeks to strengthen its national defence industries, expand its global network, and position itself as a key partner in developing future defence solutions.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, managing director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, stated: "Since its inception in 1993, IDEX has witnessed significant growth in terms of exhibition space, participating companies, and countries. The 2025 edition will be exceptional in every aspect."

Al Dhaheri revealed that the 2025 edition of IDEX and NAVDEX has seen an increase in participating companies, reaching 1,565 from 65 countries, reflecting a 16% growth compared to the previous edition. The total exhibition space has expanded by 10% to 181,501 square metres, while 731 new companies are participating, marking an 82% increase.

"This edition will feature 41 national pavilions, with the UAE pavilion being the largest at 25,000 square metres, a 4% increase from the previous edition. The number of national companies has reached 213, making up 16% of exhibitors, while international companies constitute 84%."

Al Dhaheri highlighted that seven new countries—Qatar, Ethiopia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, and Cyprus—are participating. A new exhibition hall, Hall 14, opposite the grandstand, has been added, featuring 341 exhibiting companies. Additionally, a dedicated CBRNE platform, with participation from 38 companies across 13 countries, has been introduced to raise awareness of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats. 

Furthermore, more than 3,300 products and technologies will be displayed, demonstrating the significant role IDEX and NAVDEX play in supporting the defence industry and enhancing the competitiveness of UAE-based companies on regional and international levels. The exhibitions will also host over 156 start-ups, accounting for 10% of total exhibitors.

Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, the Official Spokesperson for Tawazun Council at IDEX & NAVDEX 2025, stated that the Council’s participation as the “Principal Partner” of the exhibitions, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, reflects its firm commitment to advancing the defence ecosystem and enabling the UAE’s defence and security industries. The participation, she continued, is also an opportunity to showcase the Council’s achievements in supporting national industries and enhancing their global standing. 

She indicated that Tawazun Council’s presence at IDEX will span a 2,040-square-meter pavilion, where it will highlight its key initiatives and strategic objectives in supporting the defence sector and pointed out that the exhibition represents an international platform for exploring the latest technological and defence advancements, underscoring the distinction and professionalism in organising this world-class event. 

Al Jaber further noted that this year’s edition of IDEX continues to cement its prominent position established during previous editions by bringing together global leaders in the defence and security industries to showcase the latest innovations and advanced technological solutions. The exhibition also serves as a hub for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and fostering integration with strategic partners across various sectors.

She added that the Tawazun Council, as the government entity responsible for the acquisition and procurement budget system for defence purchases in the country, works closely with the Ministry of Defence and security agencies. The Council plays a pivotal role in developing an innovative and competitive defence industry base, in addition to its role in setting regulatory frameworks and quality standards, as well as issuing the necessary licenses for defence and security products, in line with the UAE’s vision to develop a world-class industrial sector.

She noted that this year’s edition of the exhibition continues to reinforce its prominent position achieved in previous editions by bringing together leading defence and security industry players from around the world to showcase the latest innovations and advanced technological solutions.

Posted date
First paragraph

The largest edition in the history of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2025) and the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX 2025) is set to take place from 17 to 21 February 2025 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Wed, 12 Feb 2025 04:41:37 +0000 eNethersole 69535 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
IDEX: Lockheed Martin to commemorate 50 years of collaboration with UAE http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/defence/idex-lockheed-martin-to-commemorate-50-years-of-collaboration-with-uae

This milestone highlights five decades of collaboration that began in 1975 with the delivery of the first C-130 Hercules airlifter to the Abu Dhabi Defense Force and has grown into a partnership strengthening regional security and advancing cutting-edge innovation.

“Celebrating 50 years of partnership with the UAE is a proud moment for Lockheed Martin, demonstrating how our long-standing collaboration continues to strengthen regional security, develop local talent, and help our partners navigate evolving challenges with confidence and capability,” said Gen. John Nicholson (U.S. Army, Ret.), chief executive, Lockheed Martin Middle East. “IDEX provides a world-class platform to showcase our commitment to advanced defense technologies, innovation, and the transformative role of AI in modern security. We look forward to engaging with global and regional leaders at this important event.”

Lockheed Martin will showcase a variety of advanced technologies that address security and interoperability challenges across all domains—land, air, sea and space. Exhibits will include next-generation fighter jets, state-of-the-art helicopters, advanced air and missile defense systems, and sophisticated command-and-control platforms. By pairing innovation with its legacy of collaboration, Lockheed Martin continues to demonstrate its commitment to partnering for security and prosperity, providing the tools and expertise that ensure mission success and bolster global stability.

The event also features a dedicated showcase of projects developed by UAE interns at Lockheed Martin’s Center for Innovation and Security Solutions (CISS) in Masdar City. CISS has trained hundreds of Emirati students in robotics, artificial intelligence, networked systems, and modelling and simulation, nurturing the next generation of aerospace and defense leaders while creating valuable opportunities in the UAE’s expanding defense ecosystem.

Lockheed Martin is also a gold sponsor of the International Defense Conference (IDC), which will take place Feb. 16, 2025. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin’s Missiles and Fire Control, will participate in a panel discussion titled “Global Disruptions and Defense Preparedness: Mitigating Threats to Critical Supply Chains,” reflecting the company’s strategic role in delivering essential defense systems around the world.

Over the past 50 years, Lockheed Martin’s partnership with the UAE has grown from delivering tactical airlifters to fostering sovereign capabilities through industrial collaboration, knowledge sharing and workforce development. As the company marks this milestone, it remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, empowering future talent, and shaping the future of 21st Century Security, with a focus on artificial intelligence’s transformative potential to safeguard future generations.

Posted date
First paragraph

Lockheed Martin will be marking 50 years of partnership with the UAE by spotlighting its vision for 21st Century Security at the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX), set for Feb. 17–21 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Mon, 10 Feb 2025 16:09:09 +0000 aPeaford 69519 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
Why defence sector paves the way to a new economy http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/defence/why-defence-sector-paves-the-way-to-a-new-economy

For the UAE, innovation is not a mere buzzword, but a driving force that shapes its development ambitions. This is especially evident in the way the country nurtures its defence sector.

A close look at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) and Naval Defence & Maritime Exhibition (NAVDEX) helps understand how this sector is paving the way for the future of defence technologies while creating opportunities for every key sector, including small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to grow, reflecting the nation’s commitment to holistic progress through innovation.

Organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and with the Tawazun Council, the exhibition, held biennially in the capital, Abu Dhabi, has become instrumental in promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing, eventually extending its impact beyond the defence arena, advancing the development of sustainable solutions that align with the UAE’s vision for a diversified and innovation-driven economy, encapsulated in ‘We the UAE 2031’ which translates the future vision of the UAE into a tangible reality.

For more than 30 years, IDEX and NAVDEX have brought together industry stakeholders from around the world to share the platform, helping position the country as a leader in defence technologies, focusing on ingenuity and sustainability. More importantly, by enabling companies of all sizes to showcase their capabilities, it creates an opportunity for smaller players to work with bigger counterparts, secure funding, explore research options and build long-term partnerships.

International Golden Group, the UAE company specialising in integrated security solutions for the government sector, offers a perfect example. Its innovative products, including advanced surveillance systems and cutting-edge armour protection, garnered attention at previous IDEX exhibitions, which helped IGG – a relatively young enterprise – to grow its reputation and leverage the exposure offered by IDEX to expand its reach into global markets.

Last year, a 65 per cent stake in the company was acquired by Edge Group, while it formed a joint venture with Safran Electronics & Defense in 2023. With the Emirates aiming to build a diversified economy, it seeks to leverage innovative defence technology to also benefit key sectors such as renewable energy, water management, and healthcare, effectively addressing major global challenges through sustainable solutions.

Thus, MBZ-SAT, the region’s most advanced satellite developed by Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, provides crucial data to address issues such as climate change and natural disasters, contributing to global sustainability efforts while strengthening national security, reflecting the nation’s ability to harness cutting-edge technology for peaceful purposes. By aligning defence technologies with space exploration and broader development objectives, the nation continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in an expansive area.

Tru to the country’s ethos, the UAE company AeroTech which designed and manufactured UAV systems initially for surveillance and reconnaissance tasks in defence, has been adapted for disaster management, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring. AeroTech’s UAVs are also employed in agricultural research for crop monitoring and irrigation management, while armoured transport and surveillance technologies developed by Transguard are being adapted for civilian use, including secure transport of valuables and surveillance in sensitive areas such as airports, banks, and government buildings, as well as in disaster response efforts.

Events such as IDEX and NAVDEX play a critical role in driving the development of such multipurpose technologies. By facilitating collaboration, exchanging knowledge and connecting local and global stakeholders, these exhibitions accelerate innovation and create solutions that extend beyond defence to impact critical sectors such as sustainability, disaster management, and public safety.

This holistic approach to innovation is aligned with Vision 2031 and UAE Centennial 2071, which seek to transform the country into a diversified and technology-driven economy through strategic partnerships and investments, enabling local companies to expand their footprint in the defence sector, while contributing to sustainable, civilian-centric solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In this spirit, the Emirates is positioning itself at the forefront of technological advancements with a focus on global sustainability, environmental responsibility, and social well-being. By aligning its defence innovations with peaceful applications and sustainable practices, the country continues to prove that the future of defence is not merely about security, but also about driving positive change worldwide.

As IDEX and NAVDEX focus on the future, they will continue to serve as a unified platform for technological advancement, empowering SMEs, and reinforcing the UAE’s role as a global leader in defence and sustainable innovation alike.

* The colocated IDEX and NAVDEX shows take place at ADNEC in Abu Dhabi on February 17 to 21. 

Posted date
First paragraph

Saeed Al Mansouri, defence exhibitions advisor at ADNEC Group looks at how next week’s IDEX-NAVDEX defence show advances the UAE’s vision for a diversified, technology-driven economy

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:02:03 +0000 aPeaford 69508 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
Saab will highlight its capabilities at IDEX http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/saab-will-highlight-its-capabilities-at-idex

“For over 30 years, Saab has partnered with the UAE government and industry to develop homegrown, world-class defence and security solutions, and build a strong ecosystem that supports Emiratisation, research and development, and innovation. As a trusted partner in the region, we continue to expand our footprint and build on our strategic partnerships. IDEX provides an invaluable opportunity to strengthen collaboration and engage with customers, stakeholders and industry leaders who share our mission of keeping people and society safe,” said Heléne Bittmann, Saab’s UAE managing director.

Posted date
First paragraph

Saab will showcase its advanced defence and security solutions at IDEX from February 17-21, in Abu Dhabi.

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Wed, 05 Feb 2025 14:36:17 +0000 eNethersole 69498 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
UAE receives first F4 Rafale fighter jet from Dassault http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/defence/uae-receives-first-f4-rafale-fighter-jet-from-dassault

Dassault Aviation CEO, Éric Trappier, joined French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu and UAE Defense Affairs Minister Mohamed bin Mubarak Fadel Al Mazrouei in launching the new aircraft.

Al Mazrouei said: “Our defence partnership with the United Arab Emirates is based on a high level of interoperability between our armies, particularly in the air sector.”

The new fighter will add to the UAE’s existing Mirage 2000 fleet and future US-made F-35s.

It will be used for testing before the start of deliveries of the 80 Rafale ordered. These are expected to begin from 2027.

Posted date
First paragraph

Dassault Aviation has unveiled the UAE’s first F4 Rafale fighter jet.

Regions
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
Off
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:07:20 +0000 eNethersole 69474 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero
WDS continues strategic partnership with SAMI http://www.timesaerospace.aero/news/events/wds-continues-strategic-partnership-with-sami

SAMI has been a key partner since the inception of WDS, and this continued collaboration plays an integral role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s defence ecosystem and national goals under Vision 2030.

SAMI, a driving force in the Kingdom's defence transformation, has helped power the success of the previous two editions of WDS. Likewise, SAMI leverages the WDS platform to support its mission of scaling up the defence industries sector. The ongoing partnership between WDS and SAMI underscores their roles in supporting the localisation of 50% of the Kingdom’s defence expenditures, thus expanding Saudi Arabia's global competitiveness in the defence sector.

As a national champion of defence localisation, SAMI, alongside WDS, is strongly aligned with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, contributing to the broader strategy in areas of economic diversification and national talent development. This valuable partnership deepens mutual commitments to drive technological innovation, strengthen the Kingdom’s defence sector, attract international partnerships and investments, and bring local talent to the forefront.

Founded by General Authority of Military Industries (GAMI), WDS 2026 will showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovations across all defence domains—air, land, sea, space, and security. The event provides an unparalleled platform for industry leaders, governments, SMEs, and local start-ups to network, forge new partnerships, and explore investment opportunities, all while highlighting Saudi Arabia’s evolving defence capabilities. Building on the immense success of the 2024 edition, WDS 2026 offers enhanced opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing within the global defence community.

Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show, said: "We are delighted to continue our partnership with SAMI for the third edition of WDS. Their leadership in defence localisation and innovation is central to the success of the show and to the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 goals. Together, we are helping to shape the future of defence, both locally and globally."

Wael M Al Sarhan, SAMI’s Chief Communication and Support Service Officer, added: "Our strategic partnership with World Defense Show underscores our commitment to contributing to the localisation of the Kingdom’s defence spending, a core target of Saudi Vision 2030. ‎ Reflecting our dedication to showcasing national capabilities by advancing cutting-edge technologies and fostering national talents to develop world-class defence products and services— to build a self-sufficient defence ecosystem that supports the Kingdom’s economic diversification goals."

Posted date
First paragraph

The World Defense Show (WDS) will be held 8-12 February 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in partnership with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI).

Regions
Other topics
Rate
No votes yet
Top story
On
Article main topic
Redirected
Off
Moved to features
Off
Lead image:
New batch
Off
Mon, 27 Jan 2025 13:07:28 +0000 eNethersole 69451 at http://www.timesaerospace.aero