Saudi Arabia courts the defense world at WDS 2026, as SAMI transforms
Middle East Bureau Chief Agnes Helou on the latest industry moves in the region at the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia’s SAMI launches ‘transformation’ into strategic group, unveils new vehicles
“We are at a unique and important position in SAMI’s journey,” Wael Alsarhan, the organization’s chief communication and support services officer, told Breaking Defense.
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Building a predictive defense industrial base begins with artificial intelligence
AI-enabled workflows accelerate production, but cybersecurity and governance remain central.
Embraer drops proposal for Saudi C-390 final assembly, shifts to UAE
“To be honest with you, my perspective is that for the C-390, there is no way to have two completion centers in the region,” said Bosco da Costa Jr., the CEO of Embraer’s defense business.
Saudi defense giant SAMI appoints new CEO
“In his role as CEO, Eng. [Thamer] AlMuhid will lead SAMI's mission to develop cutting-edge technologies, manufacture world-class products, and forge strategic partnerships,” according to the company’s statement.
Middle East was defined by regional conflicts and increased indigenous production: 2024 in review
This year was dominated by the fallout of Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza, which expanded into Lebanon, but elsewhere the defense industry kept chugging along.
CEO of major Gulf defense firm, Saudi Arabia Military Industries, steps down
"The Board has also appointed Eng. Omar AlMadhi, Vice Chairman of the Board and Chairman of the Board Executive Committee, as interim CEO," SAMI's online post reads.
From directed energy to AI and hardening, JIATF-401 is widening counter-UAS options
There is no single answer to the drone threat, pushing the Pentagon toward a broader mix of defenses.
Saudi Arabia orders 4 more A330MRTT aircraft from Airbus
The latest order will increase the Royal Saudi Air Force’s (RSAF) A330 fleet to 10 platforms, after previous deals with Airbus were signed in 2008 and 2009.
Netherlands says first Embraer C-390 delivery from joint buy with Austria is delayed to 2027
Dutch State Secretary of Defence Christophe Van der Maat said that an original 2026 delivery timeline “turned out not to be feasible due to cooperation with Austria and negotiations with the manufacturer.”
UAE’s NIMR debuts JAIS MK2 armored vehicle, tech transfer to Saudi Arabia ‘on track’
NIMR has teamed with Saudi Arabia's SAMI to eventually locally produce the JAIS inside the Kingdom, NIMR CEO Abri du Plessis told Breaking Defense.