Riyadh: World Defense Show 2026 Opens with Strong Pakistani Participation, Including Fatah-II Missile Display

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia –The third edition of the World Defense Show (WDS 2026) officially opened today in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, running from February 8 to 12 under the patronage of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The event, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), features participation from over 80 countries and more than 900 exhibitors, showcasing advancements across air, land, sea, space, and security domains. It serves as a major platform for defense industry networking, partnerships, and innovation.
Pakistan has a prominent presence at the show, represented by key state-owned entities including Global Industrial and Defence Solutions (GIDS), Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF), and others. Pakistani defense companies are displaying a range of indigenous systems, with particular attention on the Fatah-II guided multi-launch rocket system (MLRS), alongside drone technologies, anti-drone solutions, naval and air-launched systems, and other advanced defense equipment.
The Fatah-II, developed by GIDS, has drawn significant interest from international visitors due to its proven precision-strike capabilities and role in strengthening Pakistan’s conventional deterrence posture. Recent reports also highlight the unveiling of related systems, such as the indigenous SMASH hypersonic anti-ship ballistic missile, at the same venue.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif arrived in Riyadh on the official invitation of the Saudi government to attend the exhibition. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry is also participating. Speaking at the event, Talal Chaudhry emphasized the strengthening of defense ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia following recent agreements, describing the relationship as “extremely strong and stable.”
The Pakistani delegation is actively engaging with global counterparts, promoting exports, and exploring joint ventures in defense technology. The show aligns with Pakistan’s broader strategy to showcase self-reliant defense capabilities amid regional security dynamics.
WDS 2026 is expected to be the largest edition yet, with expanded exhibition space and a focus on future defense integration.