Emerging from the Flames of War, Russia's New Generation Weapons Debut at Defense Exhibition

According to the U.S. publication Defense News, recently, Russia sent a large delegation to Saudi Arabia to participate in the 2026 Riyadh World Defense Exhibition. To win over customers, the Russian side showcased a new generation of weapons, from the "Sarma" rocket launcher to the BTR-22 armored vehicle, from the "Crossbow" remote weapon station to various drones and loitering munitions, some of which have not even been deployed in their own country.

The Belgian website "Army Knowledge" analyzed that the Russian equipment showcased at this Saudi defense exhibition not only has improved intelligence and information levels but also incorporates valuable combat experience in its design and development.

"Sarma" guided rocket launcher. Photo/ "Arab Defense" website

Taking the "Sarma" as an example, the Russian newspaper Izvestia pointed out that traditional rocket launchers are often targeted by counter-battery fire on the battlefield due to their inaccuracy, slow speed, and poor protection.

To address these shortcomings, this new type of rocket launcher significantly improves hit accuracy and "shoot-and-scoot" capability by equipping guided munitions, incorporating an automated fire control system, and using a highly mobile wheeled chassis.

The Hindustan Times reported that compared to the Russian military's current rocket launchers, the "Sarma" has a total weight reduction of over 20%, a 40% increase in mobility speed, and a launch time that is halved, making operational responses more flexible and agile.

Moreover, the new type of rocket projectile launched by the "Sarma" can strike targets up to 120 kilometers away, with a maximum accuracy of 7 meters, and its power is comparable to that of short-range tactical missiles, but at a much lower cost.

Additionally, the 8×8 chassis and driver's cabin of this rocket launcher are fully equipped to armored vehicle standards, protecting the crew from shrapnel damage from enemy artillery fire.

Next, let's look at the global debut of the BTR-22 new wheeled armored vehicle. According to TASS, significant efforts have been made in its firepower, ballistic protection, and air defense capabilities.

The European Defense Review magazine stated that the basic armor of the BTR-22 can withstand 12.7mm armor-piercing rounds and the shock of 6 kilograms of TNT explosions, while the crew is equipped with blast-absorbing seats to reduce injuries in the event of a mine strike.

To minimize the risk of top openings and personnel being attacked, the BTR-22 can be optionally equipped with a remote weapon station featuring a 30mm autocannon and anti-tank missiles, allowing the crew to aim and fire from inside the vehicle.

In response to the overwhelming presence of drones on modern battlefields, the BTR-22 can further enhance its survivability through additional grille armor, body protection nets, and a top steel cage.

In addition to passive defenses, the Russian side has also introduced several new types of drones and loitering munitions that can actively seek out and autonomously attack enemies.

Rus-PE loitering munition. Photo/ Ukrainian Defense Express

For example, the Rus-PE loitering munition, as introduced by the Malaysian website "Asian Defense Security," is both a smart weapon that can be carried and operated by a single soldier and a special type of drone.

Foreign media reported that the Rus-PE can fly for 30 minutes after being launched from a tube, independently detecting, identifying, and accurately striking enemy targets within a range of 70 kilometers.

If a large number of loitering munition launch tubes are assembled into a container and transported by vehicles, ships, or transport aircraft, it can enhance mobility while launching a saturation attack using "swarm" tactics that catch opponents off guard.