The
World Defense Show (WDS) 2026 is currently taking place in
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from
February 8 to 12, 2026. This third edition of the biennial event is held under the theme "
The Future of Defense Integration" and serves as a premier global platform for showcasing advancements across air, land, sea, space, and security domains.
Key Highlights of WDS 2026
- Massive Scale:
The event is hosted at a purpose-built 800,000 sqm venue, featuring
three exhibition halls, a dedicated runway, and live demonstration
areas.
- Participation: It is hosting over 925 exhibitors from 80 countries and is expected to attract approximately 130,000 trade visitors.
- Major Debuts & Showcases:
- Saudi Military Industries (SAMI): Unveiled the HEET 8x8 105mm Fire Support Vehicle, a fully indigenous platform.
- ST Engineering: Showcased the Vantrex 6x6 and a hybrid-electric Rhino MRAP configured for manned-unmanned teaming.
- Unmanned Systems: Pakistan introduced the YALGHAR-200 loitering munition, and Saudi Arabia revealed the BARQ AI rapid interceptor to counter low-cost drones.
- Naval & Air: Lockheed Martin is promoting a full-sized F-35 replica and its Multi-Mission Surface Combatant frigate.
New Event Features
- Future Defense Lab: A hub for breakthrough technologies like AI, robotics, and quantum tech.
- Unmanned Systems Zone: A dedicated space for autonomous land, sea, and air platforms.
- Saudi Supply Chain Zone: Focuses on localizing 50% of military spending by 2030, connecting local SMEs with global giants.
- WDS News Network: A production hub providing real-time coverage and expert analysis throughout the show.
Feb
10
At World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia, CMN Naval displayed the DV10 high speed interceptor within its naval craft portfolio. The vessel was presented in both manned and unmanned configurations for coastal security, interception, and port protection missions. The exhibit highlighted operational use in dense maritime traffic and near shore environments. Read full defense news at this link...
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Feb
10
On February 6, 2026, the French Navy confirmed the launch of the offshore patrol vessel Trolley de Prévaux at Concarneau, as France begins replacing aging patrol vessels operating from metropolitan bases. The ship, launched on February 5 at the Piriou shipyard, is the first unit of the seven Patrouilleurs Hauturiers-class offshore patrol vessels and entered the fitting-out phase afloat following initial construction work begun in May 2024. Read full defense news at this link...
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Feb
10
Two U.S. Navy Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines, USS Asheville (SSN 758) and USS Annapolis (SSN 760), surfaced together off Guam on December 17, 2025, for a tightly controlled photo exercise alongside an MH-60S Sea Hawk from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25. According to information published by Commander, Submarine Squadron 15, on February 9, 2026, the event was staged in the Indo-Pacific under conditions that highlight coordination and safety rather than stealth.
Feb
10
At the World Defense Show near Riyadh on February 9, 2026, the Army Recognition team walked the Intra Defense Technologies display line and found a clear signal of where Saudi strike capability is heading next: a locally driven precision munition program paired with a Saudi-co-produced Turkish tactical UAV.
Feb
10
On February 9, 2026, the U.S. Army confirmed it completed a key qualification event for the Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) after a January 30 flight at White Sands Missile Range successfully engaged area targets beyond 100 km.
Feb
10
Army Recognition observed a full-scale F-35 Lightning II mockup on display at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, presented with a Saudi Arabian flag and Arabic markings that left little doubt about the intended audience. While mockups are common at major defense exhibitions, this one carried the unmistakable tone of a tailored proposal, placing the United States’ flagship stealth fighter at the center of Saudi procurement speculation.
Feb
10
Mercedes-Benz took part in the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, presenting the Zetros 4051 AS 6x6 tank transporter and the Arocs 4663 AS 8x8 military logistic truck as part of the company’s wider military truck range and support offerings.
Feb
10
The Russian pavilion at World Defence Show 2026 in Riyadh is hosting the world debut of the RUS-PE portable reconnaissance and strike system, as reported by Rosoboronexport and the Kalashnikov Group and observed on site by Army Recognition.
Feb
10
At the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Hyundai WIA introduced a lightweight 105 mm self-propelled howitzer mounted on KIA light tactical vehicles, illustrating the direction taken by South Korea to equip light infantry and airborne units with artillery that can maneuver as rapidly as the forces it supports.
Feb
10
At the World Defence Show in Riyadh, Robotics Centre presented Kallik as a precision unmanned aerial system developed to provide land forces with an organic strike capability at extended tactical depth. The unveiling comes at a time when armed forces are accelerating their search for munitions able to combine reach, controlled effects and reduced exposure of personnel, particularly in environments where electronic warfare and air defenses complicate the employment of traditional fire support.
Feb
10
At the World Defence Show 2026, Global Industrial & Defence Solutions is showcasing the SMASH system, described by the company as a hypersonic missile designed to conduct both maritime strike and land attack missions.
Feb
10
At the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Lockheed Martin placed a strong emphasis on maritime security by presenting a detailed model of its Multi-Mission Surface Combatant, a frigate configuration aimed at navies seeking a combination of endurance, layered defense and integration within coalition frameworks.
Feb
10
At the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Pakistan’s state defense conglomerate Global Industrial & Defence Solutions presented a new loitering munition identified as the YALGHAR 200, expanding the company’s portfolio in the rapidly evolving field of long-range precision strike systems. The unveiling took place as regional and international manufacturers continue to emphasize unmanned capabilities able to combine reconnaissance, endurance and terminal attack functions within a single platform.
Feb
10
As reported by the Middle East Monitor on February 8, 2026, Iran stated that unexploded bombs remain at nuclear facilities hit by US strikes in June 2025 and cited them as a physical hazard preventing inspections. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said inspections can only proceed after agreement on safety, security, and access protocols, noting that no existing international rules address inspections at bombed nuclear sites, especially as the U.S.
Feb
10
At World Defense Show 2026, Hyundai Rotem revealed a new variant of its HR-Sherpa unmanned ground vehicle, integrating radar detection and a surface-to-air missile system from LIG Nex1. This counter-unmanned aircraft system positions the HR-Sherpa as a mobile ground-based platform intended for perimeter security, surveillance, and localized air defense against low-altitude drone threats. Read full defense news at this link...
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Feb
10
The sight of U.S. Air Force A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft flying protective profiles alongside USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) during a U.S. Central Command training event in the Arabian Gulf is more than a photo opportunity. It is a blunt operational signal that mine countermeasures forces operating in one of the world’s most constrained and politically charged waterways will be shielded by dedicated, persistent firepower.
Feb
10
As reported by USNI News on February 6, 2026, Taiwan plans to construct ten new light frigates optimized for air defense and anti-submarine warfare under a long-term naval shipbuilding program. The 2,500-ton class is intended to replace aging surface combatants and support sustained patrol, escort, and monitoring missions in the Taiwan Strait and adjacent waters between 2028 and 2040. Read full defense news at this link...
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Feb
10
At the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Army Recognition reporters on site observed a truck-mounted Vertical Launch Unit MICA configuration presented as MICA, positioned as a compact 360-degree short-range air-defense launcher built to shield high-value sites from aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and the fast-growing threat posed by low-signature drones.
Feb
10
From the exhibition floor of the World Defense Show in Riyadh on 9 February 2026, the Army Recognition team observed Chinese company Poly Technologies showcasing its Lynx unmanned ground vehicle in a configuration built for fast, low-risk reconnaissance.
Feb
9
At World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi underscored the expanding footprint of Türkiye’s defense industry across the Middle East, emphasizing systems tailored to regional operational needs.
Feb
9
Saudi Arabia formally unveiled a new chapter in its defense industrial strategy on February 9 during World Defense Show 2026, as Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz inaugurated two new Saudi Arabian Military Industries companies and opened a large-scale land systems industrial complex in Riyadh.
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