The Minister of Industry discusses localizing military industries for the 2026 Defense Exhibition

In a strategic move reflecting the accelerating pace of industrial transformation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Mr. Bandar bin Ibrahim Al-Khorayef, chaired a roundtable meeting with leading national companies in the military industries sector. This important meeting took place on the sidelines of preparations for the third edition of the World Defense Show 2026 , scheduled to be held in Riyadh, which serves as a global platform for showcasing the latest defense and security technologies.

Strengthening the military manufacturing system and Vision 2030

The meeting extensively discussed the strategic initiatives led by the industrial and mining sector aimed at localizing military industries and transferring advanced technological knowledge to the Kingdom. These moves are central to the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , which has set an ambitious goal of localizing more than 50% of total government spending on military equipment and services, representing a fundamental shift from importing to local manufacturing and production.

The participants discussed ways to stimulate local investments and facilitate the investor journey, by building a solid industrial base capable of meeting defense and security needs, thus ensuring the sustainability of supplies and enhancing the Kingdom’s strategic independence.

The strategic and economic importance of localizing the sector

The importance of this movement is not limited to the security aspect alone, but extends to include broad economic and developmental dimensions. The localization of military industries is a key driver for diversifying the national economy, as it contributes to:

• Creating quality job opportunities for national talent in the fields of engineering, technology and advanced manufacturing.
• Enhancing the contribution of the industrial sector to non-oil GDP.
• Supporting small and medium-sized enterprises that will operate as part of the supply chains for this vital sector.

Experts confirm that the Kingdom’s success in this matter will enhance its position as an active regional and international power, not only as a purchasing power, but also as an industrial and technological center of gravity in the region.

Empowering manufacturers and removing obstacles

The meeting witnessed a clear reaffirmation of the government's commitment to empowering local manufacturers. His Excellency the Minister reviewed the integrated government mechanisms for addressing the challenges that investors in this vital sector might face. National companies presented their perspectives and proposals for developing the investment environment, making it more attractive to innovation and technology.

The focus on the World Defence Exhibition 2026 as a golden opportunity to showcase these national capabilities to international partners, and to establish strategic partnerships that contribute to the transfer and localization of technology, thus consolidating Riyadh’s position as a global destination for the defense industry.

In conclusion, this meeting reflects the commitment of the industry and mineral resources system to work diligently to create an environment conducive to innovation, and to raise the percentage of local content, in order to achieve national security and support sustainable economic prosperity.