Analysis & Reports

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.

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.

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.

Algeria received two Su-57 stealth fighter jets from Russia at Oum El Bouaghi Air Base in November 2025. This marks Algeria as the first country outside Russia to operate the Su-57, part of a broader arms deal that includes 12 jets and 14 Su-34 fighter-bombers. The deal has implications for regional military dynamics, particularly in relation to Morocco.

On February 7, a photo surfaced showing the J-15T carrier-based aircraft equipped with YJ-15 anti-ship missiles, indicating a major enhancement in China's naval capabilities. This development addresses a previous shortfall in anti-ship strike capabilities, as the J-15T is designed for the Fujian aircraft carrier, which can launch heavier payloads. The YJ-15 missile, with a range of about 500 kilometers and high speed, is expected to significantly improve the operational effectiveness of the Chinese Navy.

Li MinghuiTue Feb 10 2026Loading...

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.

Israel is enhancing its air defense capabilities by procuring Iron Beam systems to counter UAV threats, with operational capability expected by December 2025. The UAE is acquiring multi-layered counter UAV systems from Edge Group, while Qatar has secured a USD 1 billion contract for the FS-LIDS system from the US. Additionally, a Middle Eastern nation has contracted MBDA for the Sky Warden C-UAV system, and Saudi Arabia is evaluating Rheinmetall's Skyranger 30 system.

The U.S. Army trained with C100 drones at Fort Stewart, Georgia, on February 2, 2026, to enhance infantry support capabilities. This training is part of a broader initiative under the Pentagon's $1.1 billion Drone Dominance Program, which aims to deploy 340,000 autonomous drones by 2027. The C100 drone is designed for delivering munitions and conducting reconnaissance, reflecting lessons learned from recent conflicts.

Starfish Space secured a $54.5 million contract to deliver a second Otter satellite-servicing craft to the U.S. Space Force, aimed at enhancing operations in geosynchronous Earth orbit. This contract, announced on February 7, 2024, follows a previous contract for the first Otter vehicle, which is scheduled for launch in 2024. The Space Force has identified specific satellites for servicing, although details remain classified.

The U.S. Air Force requires the procurement of at least 500 next-generation fighters and bombers to effectively counter China. The Mitchell Institute recommends acquiring 300 F-47 fighters and 200 B-21 bombers, emphasizing the need to maintain legacy bombers until new models are operational. Experts warn that without a sufficient combat fleet, the U.S. risks falling into a prolonged conflict similar to past wars.

The U.S. Air Force requires at least 500 next-generation fighters and bombers to effectively counter China, according to the Mitchell Institute. The report emphasizes the need for 300 F-47 fighters and 200 B-21 bombers, surpassing current procurement plans. Experts warn that without a sufficient combat fleet, the U.S. risks falling into attrition warfare similar to past conflicts. The Air Force is also advised to maintain legacy bombers until new models are operational and to increase procurement of existing fighter jets.

The B-21 Raider bomber is set to enter operational service in Palmdale, California, between 2026 and 2027, enhancing stealth capabilities and reducing maintenance demands. This new aircraft promises to revolutionize U.S. Air Force operations with its advanced materials and design, addressing the sustainability issues faced by earlier stealth platforms like the B-2 Spirit. The B-21 Raider represents a significant leap in military aviation technology, allowing for more effective airpower deployment.

Algeria has begun operating 14 Su-57E stealth fighters alongside Su-35s in February 2026, marking a significant enhancement of its air power. This acquisition has triggered warnings from the U.S. State Department about potential sanctions under CAATSA, which could impact Algeria's defense budget. The integration of these advanced aircraft signals a new arms race in North Africa, as Algeria seeks to bolster its military capabilities amid geopolitical tensions.

Silvus Technologies introduced the StreamCaster NEXUS tactical networking system, enhancing connectivity for dismounted operators. This system integrates the SM5200 MANET radio and Samsung EUD, enabling real-time data sharing and situational awareness. It supports a self-forming mesh network of over 550 nodes and includes advanced encryption for secure communications. The Connected Soldier solution further improves interoperability among tactical devices, streamlining operations.

On February 8, 2026, a Ukrainian STING interceptor shot down a modified Shahed-2 drone equipped with an R-60 missile. This incident marks the third confirmed use of R-60 missiles on drones, indicating a tactical shift by Russian forces. The missiles, originally designed for air-to-air combat, are now being adapted for drone warfare, reflecting the challenges faced by Russian forces in achieving operational effectiveness against Ukrainian air defenses.

Dmitri VolkovMon Feb 09 2026Loading...

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.