Analysis & Reports

Defense firms from around the world are set to showcase their products at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2026. Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) will present over 60 national products, while more than 50 Chinese defense firms, including CATIC and NORINCO, will also participate. Russian state-owned Rosoboronexport will debut its multiple rocket launcher Sarma, and Western companies like Lockheed Martin and Boeing will highlight their advanced military equipment.

Israel has been approved to purchase 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to enhance its military capabilities following recent conflicts. This decision marks a significant shift in the Israel Defense Forces' procurement strategy, moving away from previous plans to reduce manned rotorcraft. The helicopters are expected to play a crucial role in urban warfare and commando operations, reflecting lessons learned from the recent war.

TAG Dynamics has developed the VELOX Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) in the UAE, designed for rapid movement and modular payload integration. The vehicle can carry up to 1,000 kilograms and reach speeds of 175 kilometers per hour, making it suitable for infantry units requiring transport and reconnaissance capabilities. Its lightweight design balances mobility and durability, catering to modern military needs.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a $130 million agreement with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli technologies into 12 CH-53K helicopters. This deal aims to replace the aging CH-53 Yas'ur fleet and enhance the operational capabilities of the Israeli Air Force. The integration includes avionics, command-and-control systems, and electronic warfare equipment, ensuring the helicopters meet Israel's unique combat requirements.

On February 5, 2026, the Israel Ministry of Defense signed a $130 million deal with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli technologies into 12 CH-53K helicopters. This integration includes command and control, avionics, electronic warfare systems, and an anti-missile DIRCM system, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Israeli Air Force. The helicopters are set to replace the IDF's aging Yas'ur helicopters and are currently being assembled in Connecticut.

Kalashnikov Concern unveiled the RUS-PE loitering munition system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, scheduled for February 8 to February 12. The system closely replicates Israel's Hero-90 loitering munition, designed for precision strikes on stationary and moving targets. It features an X-shaped aerodynamic configuration and operates in autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes.

Iran has upgraded its ballistic missile technology, enhancing its deterrent capabilities and preparing to respond to any enemy actions. Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mousavi stated that the military doctrine has shifted to an offensive posture following recent conflicts. Iran is set to negotiate nuclear issues with the U.S. on February 6, amid ongoing tensions with Israel and the U.S.

Countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia continue to upgrade and maintain M60 Patton tanks, which have been modernized with 120mm smoothbore guns and advanced fire control systems. Spain announced plans to sell 260-300 M60s in 2024, while Iran has significantly modified its M60s for enhanced combat capabilities. The M60 remains a viable military asset due to its affordability and reliability.

Ukrainian interceptor drones, including the SEEDIS, were displayed at the UMEX 2026 exhibition in Abu Dhabi. The SEEDIS is designed to protect critical airspace from hostile UAVs and operates within a networked air defense system. It features advanced sensors and can engage aerial threats with high precision. The use of interceptor drones is becoming more prevalent in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly against low-speed aerial targets.

The U.S. approved a $9 billion Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia for 730 PAC-3 MSE interceptor missiles on January 30. This sale includes a comprehensive package of support equipment and services aimed at bolstering Saudi Arabia's air and missile defense capabilities amid regional security threats. Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor for this program.

The U.S. State Department approved a $1.98 billion Foreign Military Sale to Israel for 3,250 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) on January 30. This purchase aims to enhance the Israel Defense Forces' mobility and operational capabilities. The sale includes various supporting equipment and services, reflecting Israel's ongoing integration of JLTVs into its military structure. The vehicles have been previously utilized in combat operations, indicating their importance to Israeli military strategy.

Russia is unveiling its new Sarma multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, scheduled for February 8-12, 2026. The Sarma, mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 chassis, features six launch tubes and is part of Russia's strategy to attract Middle Eastern defense customers despite ongoing sanctions. The exhibition will also include other military equipment, highlighting Russia's continued interest in the region.

Rostec will showcase advanced military systems, including the BTR-22 armored personnel carrier and Sarma 300mm multiple launch rocket system, at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This exhibition is significant as it remains one of the few global venues for Russian defense companies to present their equipment. The BTR-22 features a modern design aimed at enhancing crew safety and operational effectiveness.

The Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) showcased advancements in unmanned systems from 20-22 January 2026 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. Various military and civilian organizations presented new technologies, including portable drone-based counter-drone systems and advanced UAVs. The exhibition emphasized the growing role of unmanned systems in military operations, particularly in light of their use in recent conflicts.

Ukrainian General Cherry unveiled the Bullet interceptor drone at the UMEX 2026 exhibition in Abu Dhabi. This drone is designed to intercept Russian Shahed kamikaze drones, featuring a speed of 310 km/h and a tactical range of up to 20 km. The introduction of this drone is part of Ukraine's strategy to enhance domestic production of military UAVs and reduce reliance on foreign air defense systems.

Lowental Hybrid will supply hybrid-electric engines for tactical UAVs to Elbit Systems in Jerusalem. The decade-long agreement, valued at approximately $1.4 million initially, aims to enhance UAV flight duration and operational capabilities. This collaboration reflects the integration of innovative propulsion technology into military applications, allowing for stealth operations and improved endurance.

On January 28, 2026, the Qatar Emiri Air Force signed an order for Ground Master 200 MM/A and GM400α radars at the DIMDEX Exhibition in Doha. This acquisition aims to enhance the country's airspace sovereignty amid evolving aerial threats, particularly drone incursions. Thales will support the Qatar Emiri Air Force with maintenance and training until 2036, ensuring effective operation of these advanced radar systems.

Qatar's defense industry unveiled new unmanned surface vessels (USVs) at DIMDEX 2026 in Doha. Iran did not attend the expo, citing domestic turmoil and geopolitical tensions following an Iranian strike on the US-run Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

On January 29, the Islamic Republic of Iran Army officially incorporated 1000 strategic drones into its military operational sequence. These drones, developed in collaboration with the Iranian Ministry of Defense, are categorized into various types including strike, attack, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. The military leadership highlighted the importance of maintaining strategic advantages to effectively respond to future threats.

On January 29, the Iranian Army officially incorporated 1000 new strategic drones into its military operations. These drones, developed by Iranian experts, are intended for various roles including strikes, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. This move aims to enhance Iran's military capabilities in response to evolving security threats.