Multiple Russian Weapons Debut at Saudi Defense Exhibition

Reference News Network, February 11 report The website of Russia Today published an article on February 8 titled "What Weapons Did Russia Showcase at the Arms Exhibition in Saudi Arabia," authored by Peter Skubey and Alexey Zakvashin. The content is summarized as follows:

The 2026 World Defense Exhibition opened on February 8 in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. At this exhibition, Russia showcased various models of weaponry, some of which made their public debut. The exhibits included the latest 300mm "Sarma" multiple launch rocket system, BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, RUS-PE loitering munition, and the deeply upgraded RPG-29M anti-tank rocket launcher. Experts indicate that products from Russian defense enterprises often surpass their foreign counterparts, consistently attracting international attention.

In addition, Russia also displayed the latest domestic light weapons of various calibers and models, with the total number of exhibits approaching 1,000.

"Sarma" Multiple Launch Rocket System

One of the main new products showcased by the Russian defense industry is the 300mm "Sarma" multiple launch rocket system.

This weapon system was developed based on combat experience and serves as a tool for delivering fire strikes, capable of functioning as part of an integrated reconnaissance-strike system.

The "Sarma" is a next-generation system. It utilizes modern electronic components produced in Russia, resulting in significant improvements in tactical and technical performance compared to previous generations, including faster readiness for firing and increased accuracy against targets within 120 kilometers.

One of the main advantages of the "Sarma" is its mobility. Its eight-wheeled launcher can reach a maximum speed of 95 kilometers per hour on the road and can be combat-ready in as little as 3 minutes. The vehicle can complete a salvo of 6 rockets in just 18 seconds—this performance ranks among the best in the global multiple rocket launcher market, determining the equipment's survivability in counter-battery operations.

BTR-22 Armored Personnel Carrier

Additionally, visitors to the exhibition will see the new BTR-22 armored personnel carrier for the first time. This vehicle is also based on combat experience and differs from other similar models by adopting a new layout, with significantly enhanced bulletproof and blast-resistant capabilities.

The BTR-22 can be equipped according to customer requirements with the crewed combat module of the BTR-82A armored personnel carrier or a new remote-controlled combat module "Crossbow" featuring a 30mm 2A42 cannon.

This module can also be fitted with two "Konkurs"-M anti-tank missiles—under this configuration, the firepower against armored targets and fortified positions is significantly enhanced.

The size and weight parameters of the BTR-22 and "Sarma" allow for air transport via the Il-76MD-90A military transport aircraft.

Various Unmanned Weapon Systems

In Riyadh, Russia also showcased new portable weapons. The highlight of the debut products is the latest RUS-PE loitering munition developed by the Kalashnikov Group.

According to the company, this loitering munition is designed for rapid and precise strikes against individual stationary or moving enemy targets.

The RUS-PE consists of a vehicle with an X-shaped aerodynamic layout similar to that of the "Lancet" drone, a warhead weighing either 1 kilogram or 2 kilograms, a guidance system, and control devices.

The RUS-PE is launched from a portable transport launch container. The guidance system ensures that the weapon can operate in autonomous, semi-autonomous, or manual modes.

The company stated: "The dual-channel gyro-stabilized electro-optical system of the guidance system can automatically detect and identify stationary and moving targets using artificial intelligence technology. The product has a flight time of up to 30 minutes and a cruising speed of about 140 kilometers per hour."

Additionally, the company also showcased the "Cube"-2E loitering munition and the "Ray" -350M all-weather high-altitude drone, which has reconnaissance, target indication, and signal relay capabilities.

The exhibition also featured the "Lancet"-E reconnaissance-strike system, Z-16-E drone, and various models of rotary-wing drones.

Military expert Alexander Kholodenkov pointed out in an interview with Russia Today that, driven by the special military operation, drones have become one of the fastest-growing areas in the Russian defense industry.

Kholodenkov stated: "During the special military operation, based solely on objective monitoring data, Russian loitering munitions have destroyed thousands of targets. The West has yet to develop similar weapons."

Anti-Tank Weapons and Light Weapons

Meanwhile, in the field of anti-tank weapons, the deeply upgraded RPG-29M anti-tank rocket launcher also made its debut. According to the Russian Defense Products Export Company, designers have successfully reduced the weight of the launch device to one-third of its original weight, equipped it with a thermal imaging sight with fire control system capabilities, and increased the variety of available ammunition.

In the field of light weapons, the Kalashnikov Group showcased the new generation of Kalashnikov automatic rifles (AK). This includes the AK-15 in 7.62×39mm caliber and the export model AK-19 in 5.56×45mm NATO caliber.

The weapon manufacturer stated that the new generation of Kalashnikov automatic rifles "is the pinnacle of the AK series, featuring more ergonomic design compared to previous generations, better suited for all-weather combat needs, higher shooting accuracy, and more precise bullet impact distribution."

In addition, visitors can also see the RPL-20 light machine gun and the "Chukavin" sniper rifle.

It is worth mentioning that the "Chukavin" sniper rifle began delivery to the Russian military in 2022 and will gradually replace the well-known Dragunov sniper rifle (SVD).

Unlike previous generations of sniper rifles, this rifle designed by Andrei Chukavin is equipped with a modern sight mounting base and a more ergonomic stock, supports the installation of a silencer, and can effectively hit targets at a distance of 1 kilometer (the SVD sniper rifle is effective at 800 meters).

The Kalashnikov Group emphasized: "The design of this rifle takes into account the modern ergonomic requirements of similar weapons, allowing for individual differences among shooters and ensuring compatibility with various combat gear." (Translation/ Han Ziling)