India put its indigenous defence capabilities on display at the World Defence Show (WDS) 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, demonstrating its growing prowess in military manufacturing and global strategic partnerships. The two‑day event, held on February 8–9, marked India’s first dedicated pavilion at the international exhibition.
Leading the delegation, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth visited the exhibition alongside top officials and defence industry representatives. The India Pavilion, spanning around 400 square metres, showcased a wide range of homegrown military products, including armoured vehicles, artillery systems, missiles, radar systems, naval equipment, and advanced communication technologies. The display reflected India’s commitment to the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision, aiming to strengthen both domestic capabilities and defence exports.
On the sidelines of the show, Minister Seth held meetings with senior Saudi defence officials to explore bilateral cooperation, joint development, and technology sharing. He met Dr Khaled bin Hussein Al‑Biyari, Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, and Dr Faleh bin Abdullah Al‑Sulaiman, Governor of the General Authority for Defence Development (GADD). Discussions focused on enhancing supply chains, joint research and development, and collaboration in advanced defence technologies.
Seth also invited Saudi officials to visit India’s defence research and production facilities to get a first-hand understanding of the country’s capabilities. He interacted with Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al‑Ohali, Governor of the General Authority of Military Industries (GAMI), emphasizing the potential for strategic partnerships between Indian and Saudi companies.
The exhibition also included an industry interaction session at the Indian Embassy, where Seth encouraged collaboration to promote self-reliance in defence production while fostering global partnerships.
India’s presence at WDS 2026 highlights its growing role as a global defence manufacturing hub. Currently, Indian defence products are exported to over 85 countries, and events like the Riyadh show offer a platform to strengthen international ties, boost exports, and demonstrate the country’s advanced technological capabilities in military systems.
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