Global, Naval Warfare

Qatari companies unveil new USVs as Iran skips 2026 DIMDEX naval expo

New on the Middle East Defense Digest: Drone boats, the Qatari defense industry and foreign ships make their mark in Doha.

At DIMDEX 2026 in Doha, Qatar’s defense industry brought a new wave of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and fresh efforts to bolster its navy. Noticeably missing from the conference was Iran, which stayed home this year amid domestic turmoil and geopolitical tensions following the Iranian strike on the US-run Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

Breaking Defense Middle East Bureau Chief Agnes Helou reports from the naval expo floor. Learn more on the latest episode of the Middle East Defense Digest.