RIYADH: A variety of cutting-edge defense assets are expected to arrive in Saudi Arabia as the World Defense Show 2024, scheduled for February 4-8, approaches.
The event, under the patronage of King Salman, 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 aircraft.
These aerial displays will be a testament to the future of multi-domain operations.
One of the highlights of the event is the daily air display led by the Saudi Hawks, the Saudi Air Force’s aerobatic team. In addition, China’s national aerobatic team, Ba Yi, will demonstrate their piloting expertise.
The occasion will also include an air display of a variety of fighter aircraft, including the Callidus B250 light attack aircraft, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale C and F-15, which will take center stage each day.
Pakistan Air Force will also make an appearance with three JF-17 Thunder multi-role fighters. Additionally, UAV capabilities such as the Red Cat Teal2, Firejet M180, and Skydio X10D will be on full display.
With more than 50 fixed-wing and rotary aircraft on display in the static display area, visitors can see a Cessna Caravan, Boeing Chinook, Airbus A320, A321, Cougar helicopter, Sikorsky Seahawk and Blackhawk, Bombardier Global 6500, and Embraer KC. You can see it up close. -390, and the classic Lockheed Martin C-130.
In particular, cutting-edge electric aircraft such as the Volocopter eVTOL air taxi are also available for review.
“Our static and live exhibition teams have assembled an incredible line-up of air, land and sea assets. The huge number of exhibits and vast outdoor and land demonstration spaces will make this an important part of the World Defense Show. It’s a watershed, allowing visitors to get their hands on the equipment, witness practical product demonstrations, and really understand the immense capabilities of the innovative products we’ve put on display.” World Defense Show CEO Andrew Piercy said in a statement.
In addition to the air exhibits, the show features ground demonstrations each day. Among the land assets on display are the Kalidus 8 x 8 Wahashu Multi-Role Armored Vehicle, Humvee Saber Light Tactical, and an all-wheel drive off-road Tatra Tactical truck vehicle.
The event will showcase Saudi Military Industries’ Obaya and Storm II vehicles. A total of 70 land assets will be on display, with donations from companies including Oetker, Teradyne, Chrysler, Oshkosh, Saab, GM and Nexstar.