Saudi Defense Minister Inaugurates World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh
Riyadh, The Gulf Observer: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, on Sunday inaugurated the third edition of the World Defense Show 2026 in Mulham, north of Riyadh, marking the start of a five-day global defense and security exhibition held under the patronage of King Salman, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
The opening ceremony drew official delegations, government entities, and leading international and regional companies specializing in defense and security, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing role as a hub for advanced military industries and innovation.
The first day of the exhibition witnessed the announcement of several agreements and memoranda of understanding, reflecting strong momentum in industrial and technological partnerships between Saudi entities and global defense firms. The General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) to advance localization efforts, enhance local content, and improve the efficiency of national supply chains.
GAMI also concluded memoranda of understanding with General Electric and Airbus Defence and Space, aimed at expanding international partnerships and facilitating the transfer of advanced technologies and expertise to the Kingdom.
In the military aviation sector, GE Aerospace and Middle East Propulsion Company announced three new agreements to enhance the operational readiness of the Royal Saudi Air Force’s F110-129 engine fleet, while also supporting regional operators of the platform.
The opening ceremony featured aerobatic displays and precision formations by Royal Saudi Air Force aircraft, delivering a striking aerial showcase that highlighted the force’s capabilities and professionalism.
Organized by GAMI, the exhibition seeks to localize more than 50 percent of military spending in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, while enhancing operational readiness and strengthening strategic independence across the defense sector.
Speaking at the event, Col. Khalid Al-Aifan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense at the World Defense Show, said the ministry’s participation aligns with Vision 2030 objectives to localize military industries and raise domestic spending on services and equipment to 50 percent by 2030.
GAMI Governor Ahmad Al-Ohali said the third edition reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation, localization, and the development of an integrated defense ecosystem through platforms that connect government bodies with international partners. He added that the show features live air and land demonstrations, static displays, and newly developed zones designed to expand opportunities for partnership and integration.
World Defense Show CEO Andrew Pearcey noted that the exhibition includes a fully equipped airport with a 2,700-meter runway, four taxiways, and extensive display areas showcasing the latest aircraft, reinforcing the event’s status as a leading global defense exhibition capable of hosting world-class, integrated demonstrations.
