Analysis & Reports

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.

The World Defense Show 2026 is currently ongoing in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, showcasing a variety of military equipment and technology. Notable displays include the Mercedes-Benz Zetros tank transporter, the Ukrainian Vampire drone, and the F-35 fighter jet. Attendees are engaging with interactive exhibits, including combat simulations and drone demonstrations. The event highlights the growing interest in defense capabilities and innovations.

The World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, showcased various military equipment and technology on February 10, 2026. Exhibitors included Mercedez-Benz, which displayed heavy duty trucks, and Ukrainian manufacturer Skyfall, which presented its hex-copter Vampire drone. Attendees engaged with military aircraft models such as the F-35 and Eurofighter Typhoon, while drone demonstrations occurred in a dedicated area.

Russia showcased a large delegation and new generation weapons at the Riyadh World Defense Exhibition. The Sarma rocket launcher features improved accuracy and mobility, while the BTR-22 armored vehicle offers enhanced protection. Additionally, new drones and loitering munitions capable of autonomous operations were presented, reflecting advancements in Russian military technology.

ARQUIMEA showcases the enhanced Q-SLAM-40 loitering munition system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, February 2026. The system features improved endurance, vision, and AI capabilities, making it effective for various mission scenarios. The company has delivered these capabilities to six programs in Europe and Asia throughout 2025, and collaborates with Navantia to integrate its systems into naval platforms.

Rosoboronexport unveiled the BTR-22 armoured personnel carrier at a Saudi exhibition in 2026. The BTR-22 features a new design with improved safety and troop access, powered by a 330 hp engine, and can reach speeds of 85 km/h. It offers ballistic protection and can be equipped with advanced weaponry, including the Ballista unmanned turret.

Intra Defense Technologies unveiled the Nathir X mobile electronic support measure at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia, designed to protect UAVs from electronic warfare. The company also showcased the Shalfa munition, which incorporates advanced navigation and targeting systems, with production expected to begin by the end of 2026. Additionally, an aerostat system was demonstrated to the Saudi armed forces, successfully detecting maritime threats.

Aselsan introduced the SEDA 100 acoustic sensor system, designed for detecting gunfire and explosions, enhancing situational awareness for military operations. The system utilizes multiple high-sensitivity microphones to determine threat locations and is already in service on Turkish armoured platforms. Field trials are set to begin in March 2026, with integration planned for South Korean military vehicles. SEDA 100 represents a significant advancement in military technology, improving battlefield survivability.

Elbit Systems secured over $100 million in contracts from the Israel Ministry of Defense on February 9, 2025, to develop advanced digitization capabilities for the Israel Defense Forces. The projects will enhance command and control systems, integrate AI technologies, and improve border defense through innovative multi-sensor systems. This initiative aims to significantly boost the IDF's operational effectiveness and technological advantage in modern warfare.

MKE showcased the Tolga air defense system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, designed to counter drones and low-flying threats. The system integrates radar, electronic warfare, and multiple weapon calibers, achieving a 100% success rate in live fire trials. Tolga can operate in various modes and is adaptable for different platforms, enhancing Turkey's defense capabilities against aerial threats.

ASIO Technologies developed the Orion tactical mission enhancement system and Lynx handheld monocular imaging device to enhance situational awareness for ground troops in Israel following the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas. These systems address critical gaps in command and control and are designed for quick usability by reservist infantry. The technology has garnered attention from foreign militaries for its potential impact on battlefield operations.

The Turkish Air Force continues to operate and upgrade its F-4 Phantom II fighters, specifically the Terminator 2020 variants, at Eskisehir Air Base. These aircraft are expected to remain in service until 2030, serving critical roles in air-to-air escort and protection alongside F-16s and UAVs. The 111 Filo 'Panterler' Squadron is the last unit operating these fighters, which have been enhanced with advanced avionics and precision-strike capabilities.

The World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia is showcasing various military and defense equipment on February 9, 2026. International defense manufacturers are displaying items such as a helicopter flight simulator, Viking armored vehicle, MAA-1B munition, and V-BAT UAV. Attendees are actively engaging with military simulation technologies and exhibits.