Introduction

Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in localizing various defense technologies as part of its Vision 2030 goal. Key technologies being localized include:

Air and Missile Defense Systems

Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) components:

Manufacturing of THAAD interceptor canisters

Production of THAAD Missile Round Pallets

Naval Systems

Combat Management Systems

SAMINavantia launched a Saudi-designed combat management system

Other naval technologies in development:

Gunfire control systems

Integrated communication control systems

Integrated platform management systems

Land Systems

Remotely-controlled weapon stations:

Roaya system for light vehicles, capable of mounting various weapons

Battle management systems

Mulhim system for brigade-level units and below

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Local production of Turkish Akinci UAVs

Development of munitions and sensors for UAVs

Aircraft Components

Establishment of a Sniper advanced targeting pod (ATP) repair center

Creation of a Composites Manufacturing Center of Excellence

Communication and Electronic Systems

Indigenous communication systems

Autonomous systems for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat

Cybersecurity

Significant investments in cybersecurity capabilities

Simulation and Training

HAZEM simulation and training system

Conclusion

These localization efforts span across various defense domains, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to developing a comprehensive domestic defense industry capability.