India-Saudi defence ties strengthened at World Defence Show 2026

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth led a high-level Indian delegation to the World Defence Show (WDS) 2026 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia , on February 8-9 , aimed at strengthening defence cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia .

He joined international dignitaries at the opening ceremony and inaugurated the first India Pavilion , which featured exhibits from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and private Indian companies highlighting the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities.

The India Pavilion showcased indigenously developed defence platforms and technologies, including weapon systems, surveillance and radar solutions, unmanned aerial vehicles, naval systems, aerospace components and communication equipment. The display reflected India’s growing footprint in global defence manufacturing.

India’s defence exports have expanded steadily in recent years under the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative . Exports have crossed ₹21,000 crore in 2024-25 , with Indian defence products now being supplied to more than 85 countries . Key export items include artillery systems, missiles, patrol vessels, helicopters, radar systems, protective gear and ammunition.

During the visit, Shri Seth toured exhibition areas of Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and the Saudi Ministry of Defence to review their latest indigenous technological developments.

He held discussions with Dr Khaled bin Hussein Al-Biyari , Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing cooperation across the armed forces of both countries. Shri Seth also met Dr Faleh bin Abdullah Al-Sulaiman , Governor of the General Authority for Defence Development (GADD), and invited GADD officials to visit India’s research and development facilities to explore opportunities for co-development of defence technologies.

In a separate meeting with Mr Ahmed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ohali , Governor of the General Authority of Military Industries (GAMI), talks centred on identifying areas of strategic cooperation and strengthening the defence supply chain ecosystem between the two nations. A proposal was also made for a joint GAMI-led delegation visit to India .

Addressing heads of Indian and Saudi defence companies at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, Shri Seth underlined the importance of industrial collaboration to achieve self-reliance in defence requirements and reiterated India’s commitment to global partnerships under the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision .

As part of the official programme, the Raksha Rajya Mantri visited Diriyah , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the Saudi state. He later addressed members of the Indian diaspora at an event hosted by the Indian Embassy, highlighting India’s progress in areas such as women’s empowerment, healthcare and digital literacy, and advocating a ‘Nation First’ approach.

The visit underscored India’s efforts to deepen defence ties with Saudi Arabia while promoting cooperation in defence production, technology development and exports.