3rd edition of World Defense Show opens in Saudi capital

By Hussien Elkabany

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AA) – The third edition of the World Defense Show (WDS) opened in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, on Sunday.

Organized by the Saudi General Authority for Military Industries from Feb. 8 to 12, the exhibition draws official delegations from government agencies and international companies operating in the defense and security sectors.

According to the Saudi television channel Al Ekhbariya, the opening ceremony was attended by Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman.

The Turkish defense company TETRA Technologies is also participating in the show.

In statements on the sidelines of the show, the CEO of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), Mehmet Demiroglu, said Saudi Arabia has shown interest in the locally produced Kaan fighter jet.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had stated a few days earlier, during the conclusion of an official visit to the Kingdom, that his country was about to conclude important agreements for cooperation with Saudi Arabia in the field of defense industries.

WDS has become a key global platform for defense professionals, bringing together industry leaders, military officials, and government representatives to explore advancements across the air, land, sea, space, and security domains.

The event facilitates collaboration, business development, and discussions on the future of defense integration.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio in Istanbul