Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) has signed several cooperation agreements with international companies and government authorities during the International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX).
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, SAMI, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), strives to expand the kingdom’s defense capabilities and localize its military industry.
Sharing his delight about the closure of major deals, Mr. Walid bin Abdulmajeed Abu Khaled Chief Executive Officer, SAMI commented that “We are pleased to achieve outstanding success through our participation in IDEX 2021. This will lead us to new achievements and make Saudi Arabia one of the leading manufacturers of military systems in the world”.
A joint venture agreement was signed by SAMI with the US firm Lockheed Martin, the world’s largest military company. The venture will develop expertise in manufacturing software technologies along with the production, servicing, and repair of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
SAMI also signed a cooperation agreement with Nimr, a part of the EDGE Technology Group in Abu Dhabi which will allow both firms to work together on armored military and security vehicles. It also marks the first collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the field of military industry.
Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) has also signed a deal with SAMI to be a strategic partner in next year’s IDEX.
During the five-day exhibition, GAMI Gov. Mr. Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al-Ohali visited the Saudi pavilion along with Saudi Ambassador to the UAE Mr. Turki bin Abdullah Al-Dakhil.
International Defense Exhibition and Conference
International Defense Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) is one of the leading international defense exhibitions and conferences in the MENA region demonstrating the latest technology across land, sea, and air sectors in defense.
