Analysis & Reports

DIMDEX QATAR 2026 opened at the Qatar National Convention Centre in Doha from 19 to 22 January 2026, organized by the Qatar Armed Forces. The event featured over 200 companies and nearly 100 official delegations, showcasing innovations in defense and security, including Roketsan’s compact strike cruise missile and various advanced military systems.

Thales contracted to supply the Qatar Emiri Air Force with Ground Master 200 MM/A and Ground Master 400 Alpha radars to enhance airspace sovereignty. The contract, announced on 28 January 2026, includes maintenance and operator training until 2036. These radars are designed to provide superior situational awareness and tracking capabilities against various airborne threats, including drones.

Iran unveiled the Qaher-313 as a domestically produced stealth fighter in February 2013, but it has never produced a confirmed manned aircraft. The program has since transitioned to unmanned variants, with the JAS-313 jet drones being tested. Despite initial claims of advanced capabilities, the Qaher-313 has faced skepticism regarding its design and functionality, with no verified flight data available.

On January 27, 2026, the Israel Ministry of Defense announced a multi-year order for air-launched munitions from Elbit Systems, valued at approximately USD 183 million. This agreement aims to expand Israel's defense-industrial base and enhance the capabilities of the Israel Defense Forces. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen national security and economic resilience through domestic defense production.

LEMT unveiled a portable drone-based counter-drone system at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi from January 20 to 22, 2026. The system features a hand-held launcher and interceptor drones capable of automatic flight after target detection. The interceptor drone has a range of 6 km and is equipped with a fragmentation warhead.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a contract exceeding $183 million with Elbit Systems for aerial munitions to enhance its defense industrial base. This procurement is part of a multi-year military buildup plan aimed at ensuring future equipment supply and improving military readiness over the next decade. The Defense Minister highlighted the expansion of domestic production as a core national security interest.

Four NATO nations, including Lithuania, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Croatia, selected Rafael's Trophy Active Protection System for their Leopard 2 A8 Main Battle Tanks. The contract, valued at approximately $390 million, was signed between EuroTrophy GmbH and KNDS Deutschland. This selection reflects confidence in the system, which is combat-proven and aligned with NATO standards, and includes logistical support for long-term availability.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a $183 million contract with Elbit Systems for the procurement of air-delivered munitions. This agreement is intended to support the operational requirements of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and enhance the domestic defense industrial base. The deal reflects a strategic shift towards increasing local production capabilities amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is increasing production of offshore vessels and corvettes, with the first Falaj-3 vessel expected to be delivered to Kuwait by mid-2027. The company is also developing unmanned surface vessels and integrating new technologies, while 70% of its order book is for export to markets including Angola and Kuwait. The first BR71 MKII corvette will be launched on March 4 in Cherbourg, France.

President Trump announced the 'Super Raptor' upgrade for the F-22 Raptor during a visit to Doha, Qatar. This upgrade aims to extend the aircraft's service life to 15,000 hours and includes advanced capabilities such as next-generation infrared search-and-track systems and the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. Additionally, a new 'F-55' concept was introduced as an upgrade to the F-35.

Elbit Systems was awarded a $228 million contract by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems to supply the Iron Fist Active Protection System for U.S. Army Bradley IFV upgrades. The contract, announced on January 26, 2026, will be executed over three years and aims to enhance the survivability of armored platforms against modern battlefield threats. Iron Fist APS has been selected by various military forces, including the Israel Defense Forces and NATO armies.

The Chinese 24th Peacekeeping Force successfully passed a UN equipment inspection in Lebanon on the 24th, showcasing their operational readiness. The inspection covered over 20 categories of equipment, including vehicles and medical supplies, with all items meeting or exceeding UN standards. A team of 15 UN professionals conducted the thorough evaluation, highlighting the professionalism of the Chinese forces.

Iran has enhanced its missile defense capabilities and increased the quantity and quality of its missile strength compared to last year. The Iranian Defense Ministry spokesperson emphasized the improved efficiency of these systems. Concurrently, the U.S. has threatened military intervention, with President Trump announcing a large fleet heading to the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier and additional missile defense systems.

Iran showcased its domestically produced 'Shahed' series drones during a televised event on the evening of the 22nd. The drones, including models like the 'Shahed-129', were previously used in a military conflict with Israel last June. IRGC Air Force officials highlighted the capabilities of these drones, including their armament and specifications.

Bulgaria approved a $205 million project to purchase Naval Strike Missiles to enhance its coastal defense capabilities. The deal, conducted with the U.S. government, is expected to see payments concentrated between 2029 and 2030. This acquisition follows a similar purchase by Romania and is part of a broader effort to counter increased Russian military activity in the Black Sea.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are advancing the Carmel programme, focusing on integrating advanced technologies into armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) since 2021. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) was selected as the prime contractor, with the Merkava Mk4 Barak being the first to operationally integrate these technologies. The Carmel suite enhances crew survivability and situational awareness, allowing for closed hatch operations. The IDF plans to increase production of advanced AFVs, including the Merkava Mk4 Barak and Eitan APCs, by 2025.

The UAE Ministry of Defense signed 11 defense contracts worth $980 million during UMEX 2026 in Abu Dhabi. Key agreements include UAV development and tracked RCV systems with EDGE Group. Additionally, interest in 3D-printed unmanned surface vessels (USVs) was highlighted, showcasing advancements in military technology and a 20% increase in contract value compared to 2024.

The Admiral Nakhimov battlecruiser is undergoing sea trials after significant upgrades, including the installation of 176 vertical launch tubes and advanced missile systems. The ship, part of the Russian Navy, is expected to rejoin the fleet after being out of service since 1999. Reports indicate that its nuclear reactors are operational, and it is heavily armed with Kalibr, Oniks, and Zircon missiles, enhancing its naval capabilities.

Tawazun Council for Defence Capability announced the signing of 11 contracts worth AED 3.6 billion during the UMEX and SIMTEX 2026 exhibitions in Abu Dhabi on 22 January 2026. The contracts include agreements for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles and remote-controlled weapons, reflecting a 20% increase from the previous edition. This underscores the UAE's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and strategic partnerships.

SIRBAI signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with EDGE in Abu Dhabi on 22 January 2026 to advance AI-powered swarm capabilities for unmanned aerial systems. This collaboration aims to integrate SIRBAI's advanced mission intelligence and swarm technologies into EDGE's UAV ecosystem, enhancing operational effectiveness and decision-making. The partnership follows successful technology demonstrations confirming SIRBAI's capabilities.