Russia to show new rocket artillery and APCs in Saudi Arabia

Russia’s state defense conglomerate Rostec confirmed it will present a range of advanced military systems at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia.

The exhibition will include the BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, the Ballista remote-controlled combat module, the Planshet-A/Atlet artillery fire-control system, the Volk (Wolf) armored vehicle and the 300mm Sarma multiple launch rocket system (9A52-4) mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 chassis. The event is scheduled to take place in Riyadh, where Saudi Arabia hosts one of the Middle East’s largest defense exhibitions.

The systems selected for display reflect Russia’s current export portfolio in armored vehicles, remote weapon stations, and digital fire-control technologies.

The BTR-22 is a modernized armored personnel carrier based on the BTR-80 family but redesigned with a front-mounted engine compartment. This configuration improves crew survivability and allows for a rear troop exit, aligning the layout with newer Western and Asian armored vehicle designs. The vehicle is intended for infantry transport, patrol missions, and battlefield mobility under fire.

BTR-22 armored personnel carrier

Rostec will also present the Ballista remote-controlled combat module, a remotely operated weapon station designed for armored vehicles and fixed positions. The module allows operators to engage targets from inside the vehicle using stabilized sensors and fire-control systems, reducing crew exposure during combat operations.

Ballista remote-controlled weapon system

Another key system in the display is the Planshet-A/Atlet artillery fire-control system, a digital command tool used to coordinate artillery units, calculate firing data, and transmit target information in real time. The system is designed to shorten response times between detection and engagement, enabling artillery units to operate with improved coordination.

The Sarma 300mm multiple launch rocket system will also be shown as part of the exhibition. The 9A52-4 launcher is mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 truck chassis and is designed to fire heavy-caliber rockets at long range. The system is positioned by Russia as a mobile alternative to older tracked launchers and U.S.-made HIMARS, offering road mobility and faster redeployment for rocket artillery units.

Sarma 300mm multiple launch rocket system

The World Defense Show is one of the few global exhibitions where Russian defense companies continue to present export equipment alongside Western, Asian, and regional manufacturers. Rostec has used the event in previous years to engage potential customers from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia despite restrictions affecting other international venues.