Analysis & Reports

Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Arabia on 12 February 2026 for the joint production of the MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System and 122 mm MLRS ammunition. This marks MKE's third export of the TOLGA system in a month, following exports to Qatar and Egypt. Additionally, MKE is establishing ammunition production lines in Saudi Arabia and has signed an agreement for joint explosives production.

Russia introduced the Sarma multiple launch rocket system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The system features a command-and-control vehicle and a target acquisition UAV, enhancing its operational capabilities. The Sarma can launch six rockets in 18 seconds and is designed for rapid deployment, with guided rockets capable of reaching targets up to 120 km away.

Saudi Arabia has signed a contract to acquire four armed C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft, enhancing its maritime surveillance and combat capabilities. The aircraft will be equipped with advanced systems for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare, including MARTE-ER missiles and MU90 torpedoes. This acquisition positions Saudi Arabia as the first operator of this armed variant, marking a significant evolution in its military capabilities.

Norinco unveiled the FL50 swarm-capable loitering munition at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The system features a multi-canister launcher mounted on an armoured carrier, designed for precision strikes and capable of operating autonomously or within a sensor network. Each munition weighs 37 kg and is equipped with a 5.5 kg warhead, enhancing the operational capabilities of military forces.

SAMI Land Company launched the HEET Program in Riyadh on February 11, 2026, introducing a new generation of advanced wheeled armored vehicles. The program aims to produce up to 1,500 military vehicles annually, enhancing Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities and operational readiness. The vehicles are designed for diverse military operations, including border protection and reconnaissance, and will be manufactured entirely within the Kingdom.

Iran received Mi-28NE attack helicopters from Russia, spotted at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, and conducted flight tests over the capital in early 2026. The helicopters, featuring advanced upgrades, indicate a significant enhancement of Iran's military capabilities. This delivery follows negotiations for military acquisitions from Russia, further expanding defense cooperation between the two nations.

Exavision showcased its Nemosys long-range electro-optical surveillance system in Saudi Arabia, designed for continuous monitoring of borders and critical infrastructure. The system integrates advanced sensors, including a full-HD camera and thermal imager, and features AI-based video analytics for enhanced target detection and tracking. Its modular design allows customization for various operational needs, making it a valuable asset for Saudi security forces.

Thermobaric weapons have been utilized by the U.S., Russia, and Israel in various conflicts, including recent reports of their use in Gaza. These weapons, known for their devastating effects, have evolved from World War II designs to modern munitions like the GBU-43/B MOAB. The U.S. military has employed them in significant battles, while allegations of their use against civilian populations raise concerns about potential war crimes.

John Cockerill Defense showcased the Cockerill Light Weapon Station (CLWS) on the Arquus MAV’RX 4×4 armored vehicle at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. The CLWS is designed for light armored vehicles, providing medium-caliber firepower and remote operation capabilities. It can be equipped with various armaments, including a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and a 25 mm cannon, making it suitable for reconnaissance and patrol missions.

The U.S. Army issued a Request for Information to support market research for counter-drone systems for the Red Sands Hard Kill Challenge 2026, focusing on Group 1-3 small unmanned aerial systems. This initiative, led by U.S. Army Central Command and the U.S. Army Armaments Center, aims to evaluate innovative hard-kill solutions in realistic operational settings in Saudi Arabia and the continental United States. The Army seeks industry input to determine an acquisition strategy for addressing the growing threat posed by small drones.

Israel successfully completed a series of complex tests for the "David's Sling" medium-range air defense system on February 11. The system, developed by Rafael Defense, is designed to intercept various aerial threats, including rockets and drones. The tests were informed by recent combat experiences and aimed at enhancing Israel's defense capabilities against evolving regional threats.

ST Engineering introduced the Rhino, a hybrid 4×4 armored vehicle, at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The vehicle, weighing 20,000 kg, is in low rate initial production and features a hybrid propulsion system, allowing for silent operation and a maximum speed of 100 km/h. It is designed for various roles, including personnel transport and UAV operations, and can carry a payload of 4,500 kg.

The US Army and US Marine Corps have procured 22,000 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) by mid-2025, while France plans to acquire 2,000 Serval vehicles by 2035. Germany's Dingo vehicles, in service since 2000, total 1,200 units. The Turkish Vuran has been exported to seven countries since 2019. In May 2025, the US Army announced a halt to JLTV procurement, shifting focus to lighter vehicles.

Russia showcased nearly 1000 pieces of military equipment at the defense exhibition in Riyadh on February 8, 2026. Key highlights included the new 300mm 'Sarma' multiple rocket launcher system, the BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, and the RUS-PE cruise missile. The exhibition emphasized advancements in weapon systems, including new generation Kalashnikov rifles designed for improved performance.

Lockheed Martin is collaborating with Saudi Arabia's ERAF to develop a combat vehicle-mounted unmanned turret, announced at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. The turret, featuring a 20 mm cannon and Javelin missile launcher, aims for local production in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative. A prototype was showcased, and the project could enhance short-range air defense capabilities for Saudi forces.

The Dassault Rafale, a twin-engine 4.5-generation fighter jet, is currently in service with nine nations, including India and the UAE. It has demonstrated its combat capabilities in simulations, successfully engaging an F-35. The aircraft is equipped with advanced weaponry and has undergone upgrades to enhance its operational effectiveness against modern air defenses.

The Eurofighter Typhoon has received significant upgrades, enhancing its capabilities with advanced weapons systems like the Meteor and Storm Shadow missiles. It is now equipped with AESA radar technology, allowing it to track multiple targets and detect stealth threats. The aircraft, originally operated by the UK, Germany, Italy, and Spain, has expanded its use to countries like Austria, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, and is expected to remain operational into the 2040s.

Sener unveiled the SRC 100 Razor unmanned stealth drone during the World Defense Show in Riyadh. The drone, weighing approximately 150 kilograms, is designed for fully autonomous operations and can be utilized for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. It features a low-observability design and is suitable for mass deployment, incorporating a parachute recovery system for reuse after missions.

Hanwha Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding with Frankenburg Technologies on February 9, 2026, to develop counter-unmanned aircraft systems for land platforms. The agreement, formalized during the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, aims to enhance the capabilities of next-generation land weapon systems against drone threats. Hanwha will integrate the systems into its vehicles, while Frankenburg will focus on developing guided missiles and fire-control software.

Rostec unveiled the R-SAVER-1 unmanned marine system at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh on February 8, 2026. The system is designed for emergency response operations at sea, capable of delivering cargo over distances of up to 800 kilometers at speeds of 50 kilometers per hour. Despite being framed as a civilian rescue system, it aligns with Russia's broader efforts to market unmanned maritime platforms amid challenges in secure satellite communications.