RIYADH: A diverse array of cutting-edge defense assets is expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia as the World Defense Show 2024, scheduled for Feb. 4-8, draws near.
Under the patronage of King Salman, this event promises to showcase military technology, featuring air and land assets, according to a press note.
On the air front, attendees can expect to witness a wide range of assets, including mission aircraft, fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs, and even the latest versions of electric aviation.
These aerial displays will serve as a testament to the future of multi-domain operations.
One of the event’s highlights is the daily air display led by the Saudi Hawks, the Royal Saudi Air Force aerobatic team. Additionally, the Chinese national aerobatic team, Ba Yi, will showcase their piloting expertise.
The occasion will also include air displays of various combat aircraft, including the Calidus B250 light attack aircraft, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale C, and F-15s, taking center stage daily.
The Pakistan Air Force will also make an appearance with three JF-17 Thunder multi-role combat aircraft. Furthermore, UAV capabilities will be on full display, featuring the Red Cat Teal2, Firejet M180, and Skydio X10D.
The static display area will showcase over 50 fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, offering visitors an up-close look at the Cessna Caravan, Boeing Chinook, Airbus A320, A321, and Cougar helicopter, Sikorsky Seahawk and Blackhawk, Bombardier Global 6500, Embraer KC-390, and the classic Lockheed Martin C-130.
Notably, cutting-edge electric aircraft like the Volocopter eVTOL air taxi will also be available for review.
“Our static and live display teams have gathered an amazing lineup of air, land and sea assets. The sheer number of exhibits, as well as the vast open air and land demonstration spaces, is a key separator for World Defense Show, allowing visitors to get hands on with the equipment, witness practical product demonstrations and really understand the immense capabilities of the innovative technology on display,” Andrew Pearcey, CEO of World Defense Show, said in a statement.
In addition to the aerial displays, the show will feature daily land demonstrations. Among the showcased land assets are the Calidus 8 x 8 Wahash multi-role armored vehicle, Humvee Saber Light Tactical, and the all-wheel-drive off-road Tatra Tactic truck vehicle.
The event will feature the Saudi Arabian Military Industries’ Obaya and Storm II vehicles. A total of 70 land assets are set to be displayed with contributions from companies like Otokar, Terradyne, Chrysler, Oshkosh, Saab, GM, and Nexter.